Uttarakhand
On August 5, 2025, a devastating cloudburst hit the Mori area of Uttarkashi district in Uttarakhand, triggering sudden flash floods and landslides. According to local authorities, at least four people have lost their lives, and over 60 individuals are feared trapped under debris or in remote areas cut off due to washed away roads and blocked communication.
What Happened?
The cloudburst occurred late at night in the Lambagad and Mori regions, causing a sudden surge in water levels in local rivers and streams. Torrential rainfall within a short period overwhelmed the drainage system, resulting in water rushing down the slopes and destroying everything in its path.
Several villages in Uttarkashi have reported damage to houses, roads, bridges, and farmland. Power outages and lack of mobile connectivity have further complicated the ongoing rescue and relief efforts.
Rescue Operations Underway
Teams from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and the Indian Army have been deployed to carry out rescue operations. However, the mountainous terrain and ongoing rain are making access difficult.
Helicopters have been sent to airlift those stranded in higher altitudes, while heavy machinery is being used to clear roads and remove debris. Over 100 people have been evacuated so far, but rescue workers fear the number of trapped individuals could rise as communication is restored to remote villages.
Weather Alerts and Precautions
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) had issued a red alert for heavy to very heavy rainfall in parts of Uttarakhand, including Uttarkashi, Chamoli, and Rudraprayag. Locals were advised to stay indoors and avoid riverbanks and landslide-prone areas.
Despite the warning, the scale and speed of the flash floods caught many residents by surprise. Experts say climate change and unplanned construction in hilly areas have increased the frequency and intensity of such natural disasters.
Government Response
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and assured that all necessary measures are being taken. Relief camps have been set up for displaced families, and compensation has been announced for the victims.
The Uttarakhand government has also requested support from the central government, especially in deploying additional rescue teams and financial aid for reconstruction efforts.
The Bigger Picture
This tragic incident is a reminder of the fragile ecological balance in Himalayan regions. Cloudbursts and flash floods have become more common in recent years, raising concerns about climate resilience, disaster preparedness, and sustainable development in Uttarakhand.
As rescue operations continue, the focus now shifts to preventing future disasters through better infrastructure planning, early warning systems, and educating local communities about disaster preparedness.
