Uttarakhand Weather : Snowfall & Rain Alert High Peaks Turn White as Temperatures Plunge

The serene hills of Uttarakhand are witnessing a fresh spell of winter-like weather in late March. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a fresh alert for rain and snowfall across several districts, effective through March 31 and April 1, 2026. This sudden "wet spell" is expected to bring down temperatures significantly across both the hills and the plains.Snowfall in High Altitudes: 3,300m and AboveFor the upper reaches of the Himalayas, the forecast is white and chilly. Heavy to moderate snowfall has been predicted for areas situated at an altitude of 3,300 meters and above.Key Districts: Uttarkashi, Chamoli, Rudraprayag, Bageshwar, and Pithoragarh.Impact: Popular trekking routes and high-altitude shrines are likely to be covered in a fresh layer of snow, potentially affecting movement in the border regions.Rain and Thunderstorms in the Hilly DistrictsWhile the peaks see snow, the mid-hills are bracing for consistent rainfall. The IMD has highlighted that districts including Dehradun, Tehri, and Nainital will likely experience thunderstorms accompanied by lightning.Wind Alert: Gusty winds reaching speeds of 40–50 kmph are expected at isolated places, which could lead to minor disruptions in power lines or falling of tree branches.Hailstorm Warning: There is a possibility of isolated hailstorms in the lower hilly regions, which remains a concern for local horticulture and blooming fruit orchards.Forecast for Dehradun and the PlainsThe capital city, Dehradun, and other plain areas like Haridwar and Udham Singh Nagar will see partly cloudy skies with chances of light drizzle.Temperature: The maximum temperature in the plains is expected to hover around 29°C to 31°C, while minimums will stay near 15°C, keeping the evenings pleasant but slightly damp.Travel Advisory: What Tourists Should KnowIf you are planning a trip to Char Dham routes or hill stations like Mussoorie and Nainital this weekend, keep the following in mind:Check Road Conditions: Rain in the hills often leads to minor landslides or slippery roads; always check local police updates before traveling.Pack Warm: Even though it's late March, the temperatures in the higher reaches can drop below zero during snowfall.Stay Informed: Follow the 3-hourly 'Nowcast' updates from the Meteorological Centre, Dehradun, for real-time weather changes.