Uttarakhand: Chamoli district has been facing persistent rainfall and snowfall since Tuesday, with remote mountainous areas bearing the brunt of harsh winter conditions. Wan village, located in the higher reaches of the district, has been covered by more than a foot of fresh snow, intensifying cold weather and disrupting routine life for residents.

Severe Weather Disrupts Daily Life in Remote Areas

The continuous snowfall has sharply lowered temperatures across several parts of Chamoli, affecting mobility, access to basic services, and daily activities. Villagers in high-altitude locations are struggling with blocked paths, reduced visibility, and increased difficulty in maintaining livestock and household safety. The accumulation of snow has also raised concerns about structural stress on rooftops and temporary shelters.

Statewide Alert Issued Over Avalanche Risk

In response to the deteriorating weather conditions, the Uttarakhand State Disaster Management Authority has issued an alert across all districts, citing the possibility of snowfall and avalanches in high-altitude regions. Authorities have emphasized the need for heightened preparedness, particularly in districts known for avalanche-prone terrain during winter months.

DGRE Forecast Warns of Critical Conditions

According to a forecast issued by the Defence Geo-Informatics Research Establishment in Chandigarh, there is a significant likelihood of snowfall and avalanche activity in several elevated areas of Uttarakhand. The warning period extends from 5:00 PM on January 27 to 5:00 PM on January 28, during which weather conditions are expected to remain unstable.

Orange Category Alert for Three Districts

Based on the DGRE assessment, Uttarkashi, Chamoli, and Rudraprayag districts have been placed under the Orange Category, also referred to as Category-3. This classification indicates the presence of deep and unstable snow on most known avalanche paths. Under such conditions, natural avalanches are considered likely without any external triggers.

Potential Impact of Medium-Sized Avalanches

Authorities have cautioned that avalanches occurring during this period may be of medium size and could travel down to valley floors. Movement in these areas is advised only on selected routes that are considered relatively safer. Even then, extreme caution is necessary, as any activity on snow-covered slopes significantly increases risk.

District Administrations Directed to Remain Vigilant

Earlier, acting on instructions from the Secretary of Disaster Management and Rehabilitation, Vinod Kumar Suman, the State Emergency Operations Centre directed District Magistrates of the affected regions to maintain continuous monitoring at the local level. Officials have been asked to remain alert in sensitive zones and to ensure that timely updates and advisories are communicated to the public.

Public Advisory Focuses on Safety Measures

Residents have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel on snow-laden slopes and in areas known for avalanche activity during the warning period. Authorities have also urged people not to halt or rest below steep slopes during or immediately after snowfall, as such locations are particularly vulnerable.

Precautions for Homes and Temporary Structures

The advisory further recommends the regular and safe removal of accumulated snow from rooftops of houses, temporary shelters, and cattle sheds. Excessive snow load can weaken structures and pose serious safety hazards, especially in prolonged cold conditions.

Guidance for Those in High-Altitude Areas

For individuals who are unavoidably required to remain in high-altitude regions experiencing heavy snowfall, officials have suggested relocating temporarily to safer, lower-altitude areas. Such relocation for one to two days, depending on prevailing conditions, could significantly reduce exposure to risk.

Authorities Continue Monitoring the Situation

Secretary Vinod Kumar Suman stated that the State Disaster Management Authority is closely monitoring the evolving situation. He added that necessary measures will be implemented in coordination with all relevant departments should conditions worsen, ensuring a coordinated response to safeguard lives and property.