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Uttarakhand on High Alert as Snowfall, Avalanche Threat Looms Over Districts

The State Emergency Operations Centre in Dehradun has issued a critical alert for potential snowfall and avalanches in high-altitude areas of Uttarakhand. The warning, based on a forecast from the Defence Geoinformation Research Establishment, specifically places Uttarakashi, Chamoli, and Pithoragarh at danger level 3. Residents are urged to exercise extreme caution, avoid unnecessary travel, and clear snow from rooftops to prevent collapse. The advisory includes detailed safety measures for those living in or traveling through the affected districts.

Key Points: Uttarakhand Avalanche Alert Issued for High-Altitude Areas

  • Avalanche alert for five districts
  • Danger levels 3 and 1 issued
  • Forecast from Defence Geoinformatics agency
  • Public advised on critical precautions
2 min read

Uttarakhand: State Emergency Operations Centre issues snowfall, avalanche alert for high-altitude areas

State Emergency Centre warns of snowfall and avalanche risk in Uttarakashi, Chamoli, Pithoragarh, Rudraprayag, and Bageshwar districts. Stay updated.

"There is a possibility of snowfall/avalanche in the high altitude areas of the state - State Emergency Operations Centre"

Dehradun, March 20

The State Emergency Operations Centre, Dehradun, has issued instructions to the District Magistrates of Uttarkashi, Chamoli, Rudraprayag, Pithoragarh, and Bageshwar to exercise special caution in view of the possibility of snowfall and avalanches.

The State Emergency Operations Centre in the information circular stated that according to a forecast issued by the Defence Geoinformation Research Establishment (DGRE), Chandigarh, there is a possibility of snowfall and avalanche on the higher altitude areas of Uttarakhand. The State Emergency Operations Centre noted that Taharkashi, Bamoli and Pithoragarh are placed in danger level 3, while Rudraprayag and Bageshwar are placed in danger level 1 in view of the forecast.

"The above is to inform that as per the forecast issued by Defence Geoinformation Research Establishment (DGRE), Chandigarh, on 20.03.2026 at 05:00 PM, there is a possibility of snowfall/avalanche in the high altitude areas of the state from 20.03.2026 to 05:00 PM on 21.03.2026. Especially in the districts, Taharkashi, Bamoli and Pithoragarh (placed in danger level-3) and Rudraprayag and Bageshwar (placed in danger level-1), there is a possibility of snowfall/avalanche. In such a situation, in case of heavy snowfall in these areas, there may be sudden collapse or avalanche," they wrote.

The information circular noted several precautionary measures for the people living in avalanche/snowfall-prone areas.

"Stay updated regarding the snowfall in the nearby areas day and night. Only travel when it's extremely necessary in rainy areas during the avalanche/snowfall, or avoid it completely. Do not allow excess snow to accumulate on the roofs of your houses or temporary shelters, cowsheds, during avalanches/snowfall and keep it cleared. Keep an eye on rain slips while travelling in buffy areas. If, for some reason, you are temporarily living in areas with more snow, then move to lower places for a day or two," it stated.

The State Emergency Operations Centre urged the citizens to use extreme caution in areas prone to avalanches amid the forecast.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
As someone who trekked in Uttarakhand last year, I appreciate the detailed precautions. Clearing snow from roofs is so important but often overlooked. Hope the local communities stay safe.
A
Arjun K
Good to see DGRE and state authorities coordinating. However, the real test is on-ground implementation. Are there enough shelters and emergency teams in these remote, high-altitude villages? The warning is just step one.
P
Priyanka N
My family is from a village near Pithoragarh. We've already called them and shared the alert. The instructions about not letting snow accumulate on cowsheds is crucial for our farmers. Hope everyone heeds the advice.
M
Michael C
The specificity of the forecast—exact districts and danger levels—is impressive. Shows how far disaster prediction has come. Wishing safety for all residents and the brave ITBP/army personnel stationed there.
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Karthik V
March snowfall is not uncommon, but avalanches are a serious threat. Respectfully, I hope the district administrations are proactive and not just sending circulars. Pre-positioning rescue teams and equipment is key. Jai Uttarakhand!

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