Avalanche warning issued for Uttarakhand high-altitude areas after fresh snowfall

The Uttarakhand government has issued an avalanche warning for several high-altitude areas following fresh snowfall in the state. The warning affects popular regions like Badrinath and Kedarnath, along with surrounding high peaks in Chamoli, Rudraprayag, and Uttarkashi districts. Authorities have urged residents and tourists to exercise extreme caution due to the risk of avalanches reaching valley floors.

This is the second spell of heavy snowfall within a week. Earlier, on January 23, high-altitude areas had already received significant snowfall, covering mountains and roads. The fresh snow on Monday night and Tuesday morning has added to the existing snow cover, increasing the risk of avalanches. The Uttarakhand State Disaster Management Authority has alerted all districts to monitor the situation closely and take precautionary steps.

According to the Chandigarh-based Defence Geo-Informatics Research Establishment (DGRE), snowfall and avalanches were likely in several high-altitude areas from 5 pm on January 27 to 5 pm on January 28. Intermittent snowfall has been reported in Badrinath in Chamoli district, Kedarnath and nearby peaks in Rudraprayag, and higher reaches of Uttarkashi district.

Areas affected and safety measures

Chakrata in Dehradun district witnessed evening snowfall, attracting a large number of tourists. The ski resort of Auli also received fresh snow, adding to the winter tourism experience. In the Kumaon region, high peaks around Munsiyari in Pithoragarh district were similarly covered with snow. Meanwhile, lower areas of the state recorded light to moderate rainfall.

The weather in the state capital, Dehradun, was sunny in the morning on Tuesday, but intermittent rain appeared in the afternoon. Due to the unpredictable conditions, the Meteorological Department had issued an orange alert, prompting authorities to close schools in the city for safety.

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The DGRE classified Uttarkashi, Chamoli, and Rudraprayag districts under the ‘orange’ category. This indicates deep and unstable snow cover on most avalanche paths with a high likelihood of natural avalanches, which could potentially reach valley floors. Officials have advised that movement should be limited to selected safe routes, and venturing on snow-covered slopes is extremely risky.

Pithoragarh district has been placed under the ‘yellow’ category. In this area, unstable snow exists on some avalanche paths, and small avalanches may occur naturally in limited regions. While movement in valley areas is possible with caution, people are warned against going onto snow-covered slopes.

Precautionary measures and closures

Schools up to class 12 have been closed in multiple districts, including Tehri, Uttarkashi, Almora, Rudraprayag, Pithoragarh, and Udham Singh Nagar, as a precaution against the inclement weather. Authorities are also advising tourists to avoid venturing into high-altitude areas unless necessary and to stay updated on weather warnings.

Officials have urged local residents to be vigilant and monitor snow-laden slopes, as the combination of heavy snowfall, wind, and low temperatures increases the risk of avalanches. Emergency response teams have been placed on alert to respond quickly in case of accidents or blocked roads.

The avalanche warning comes at a time when winter tourism is active in Uttarakhand. Places like Auli, Munsiyari, and Chakrata are popular for skiing and trekking. Tourists are being advised to follow official instructions and avoid risky areas, as the snowpack may be unstable in high-altitude zones.

Meteorologists have warned that fresh snowfall and strong winds can destabilize existing snow layers. The DGRE and other authorities recommend that people avoid high-risk slopes and not attempt activities like skiing or trekking in unsafe areas. Limited movement along relatively safe routes is considered the only viable option until conditions improve.

The forecast indicates that the winter spell will continue over the coming days, with intermittent snow in higher reaches and occasional rain in lower areas. Officials advise the public to stay indoors during snowfall and follow all safety instructions issued by the State Disaster Management Authority.

Residents and tourists are urged to keep emergency contact numbers handy and be aware of evacuation procedures in case an avalanche occurs. Authorities are monitoring snow levels continuously and are ready to provide assistance if required.

The recent avalanche warning highlights the dangers of high-altitude winter travel in Uttarakhand. Fresh snow, combined with unstable layers from previous spells, has made some areas extremely hazardous. Local authorities are taking all necessary steps to ensure public safety, including closing schools, alerting disaster response teams, and issuing continuous advisories to both residents and tourists.

People planning to visit high-altitude regions are advised to reconsider travel plans until the avalanche risk decreases. Staying informed, avoiding snow-covered slopes, and following official guidelines are key to staying safe during this period. The state government continues to monitor the situation and has requested everyone in affected areas to exercise caution.