Uttarakhand Issues 24-Hour Avalanche Warning for Higher Reaches
Authorities in Uttarakhand have issued a critical avalanche warning for the state's higher reaches, effective for 24 hours starting from 5 PM on Saturday. The alert specifically targets elevated areas across several districts, with officials strongly advising both tourists and local residents to avoid unnecessary travel to these regions during this period.
Defence Geoinformatics Research Establishment Flags Unstable Snow Conditions
The Avalanche Warning Bulletin (AWB) was formally issued by the Defence Geoinformatics Research Establishment (DGRE) based in Chandigarh. The bulletin highlighted partially unstable snow conditions prevailing in the higher altitudes and warned of possible natural avalanches occurring at various locations throughout the warning period.
District-Specific Danger Levels and Precautions
Avalanche danger level 2 (Yellow) has been marked for areas situated above 2,800 meters in the districts of Uttarkashi, Rudraprayag, Pithoragarh, and Bageshwar. This indicates a moderate risk where avalanches are possible but not imminent.
In Chamoli district, the warning escalates to danger level 3 (Orange) for regions above 3,000 meters. This higher alert level signifies that medium-sized avalanches are considered likely, posing a more immediate threat to safety in these specific high-altitude zones.
State Disaster Management Department Activates Alert System
The Uttarakhand State Disaster Management Department has placed all identified districts on high alert in response to the DGRE warning. District administrations have received specific directives to regulate movement in vulnerable high-altitude areas, maintain rescue teams and resources on standby, and conduct awareness campaigns targeting both tourists and local communities.
Field-level preparedness measures have been emphasized to ensure rapid response capabilities in case of emergency situations arising from avalanche activity.
Official Statements and Continuous Monitoring
Vinod Kumar Suman, Secretary of Disaster Management and Rehabilitation, urgently appealed to the public to avoid avalanche-prone areas and strictly follow safety advisories issued by district authorities. "The state government is continuously monitoring the situation, and further action will be ensured as required based on information received from DGRE and the Meteorological Department," he stated.
Secretary Suman conducted a comprehensive review of the situation from the State Emergency Operation Center on Saturday, directing officials to maintain 24x7 alert status, streamline essential public services, and prioritize the restoration of any closed roads affected by weather conditions or potential avalanche activity.
The coordinated response reflects Uttarakhand's enhanced disaster preparedness mechanisms, particularly crucial for a state with significant high-altitude terrain that attracts both residents and tourists throughout the year.
