Dehradun: Monsoon activity is expected to intensify again in Uttarakhand after a brief lull, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated places across the state between Aug 14 and 17.Officials warned that the rain could trigger landslides, falling boulders, road blockages, waterlogging and a rise in river and stream levels. The State Emergency Operations Centre (SEOC) has directed all districts to remain on alert and strengthen preparedness in vulnerable areas.“People should avoid unnecessary travel during adverse weather and check forecasts before setting out,” said Vinod Kumar Suman, the state’s disaster management secretary. The warning comes a week after heavy rain triggered landslides and road blockages in several parts of the state.An orange alert has been issued for Dehradun, Pithoragarh, Bageshwar and Nainital on Aug 14, with heavy to very heavy rain, lightning and intense spells likely at isolated places. Chamoli, Rudraprayag, Tehri, Pauri, Champawat, Haridwar and Udham Singh Nagar will remain under a yellow alert for heavy rain and thunderstorms.All districts will be under a yellow alert on August 15. Heavy rain is likely at isolated places in Dehradun, Tehri, Pauri, Uttarkashi, Nainital, Champawat and Bageshwar. On Aug 16, Champawat, Bageshwar and Nainital will be under an orange alert, while Dehradun, Tehri, Chamoli, Pithoragarh and several other districts will remain under a yellow alert.The weather system is expected to continue into Aug 17, when Dehradun and Tehri will be under an orange alert for heavy to very heavy rain and intense spells. The remaining districts will remain under a yellow alert.
