Uttarakhand rains: Gangotri Highway blocked by landslide, rivers swell; IMD warns of extremely heavy rain

Heavy rain continued to batter Uttarakhand on Thursday, July 9, triggering a landslide on the Gangotri Highway and swelling rivers in parts of the state, as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) warned of extremely heavy rainfall at isolated places.

A landslide blocked the Gangotri Highway at Nalu Pani in Uttarkashi, PTI reported. Efforts are underway to clear the debris and restore traffic on the route.

— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) July 10, 2026

In Rudraprayag, the Alaknanda and Mandakini rivers swelled amid persistent rainfall. Schools in the region have been shut as a precautionary measure.

The weather situation could remain severe. The IMD has forecast heavy to very heavy rain, with extremely heavy rainfall at isolated places over Uttarakhand on July 9 and 10. Thunderstorms and lightning are also likely in the state through July 15.

A well-marked low-pressure area over southwest Uttar Pradesh and its neighbourhood is influencing the current spell of rain. Uttarakhand recorded extremely heavy rainfall in the 24 hours ending 8.30 am on Thursday, with Kashipur receiving 21 cm of rain.

The IMD has also flagged a low to moderate flash flood risk till 11.30 am on Friday over parts of Garhwal, Pauri, Chamoli, Pithoragarh, Bageshwar, Almora, Champawat and Nainital. Surface runoff and inundation may occur in low-lying areas and places where the soil is already saturated.

The weather department warned that intense rain could lead to localised flooding of roads, waterlogging, closure of underpasses, traffic disruption and landslides or mudslides in vulnerable areas.

Neighbouring Himachal Pradesh is also seeing heavy monsoon rain. Relentless downpours in Sirmaur district have blocked roads and swollen rivers, while schools across the district have been shut.

First Published: 

Jul 10, 2026 9:15 AM

IST