Heavy rain has turned the hills of Uttarakhand and the plains of Uttar Pradesh into a mess. Rivers are swelling, roads are flooded, and daily life is getting harder. If you’re planning a trip, commuting, or just want to stay safe, this guide gives you the quick facts and practical tips.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued red alerts for parts of Uttarakhand and a yellow alert for most of UP. In Uttarakhand, the rain is very intense, with some areas receiving more than 100 mm in just a few hours. The Yamuna in Delhi‑NCR is close to the danger mark, causing traffic snarls and school closures.
In UP, cities like Lucknow and Varanasi are seeing heavy showers and thunderstorms. Waterlogging has started in low‑lying neighborhoods, and the power supply is shaky in a few places. The forecast says the rain will continue for the next two to three days, so conditions could get worse before they improve.
First thing – keep an eye on official alerts. The IMD website, local news channels, and government apps send real‑time updates. If a red alert is active, avoid traveling unless it’s absolutely necessary.
When you’re on the road, drive slowly and stay away from water‑covered roads. Even a few centimeters of water can hide potholes or cause a vehicle to stall. If you see a road that looks unsafe, turn around and find an alternate route.
Home safety matters too. Move valuables to higher floors, secure loose outdoor items, and make sure your drainage system is clear. Keep a flashlight, batteries, a first‑aid kit, and some bottled water ready – power cuts are common during heavy rain.
If you’re in a flood‑prone area and the water starts rising fast, move to higher ground immediately. Do not try to cross flowing water on foot or by vehicle – it can be deeper than it looks. Local authorities often set up relief shelters; know the nearest ones.
Travelers should check hotel policies about cancellations and keep digital copies of tickets and IDs. Many airlines and trains may delay or cancel services, so flexible bookings help avoid extra costs.
For those with pets, bring them inside and keep them dry. A damp pet can get sick quickly, so have blankets and food stocked.
Lastly, stay connected. Share your location with family or friends, especially if you’re moving around during the alerts. A quick text can let others know you’re safe.
Heavy rain can be stressful, but with the right prep you can stay out of trouble. Keep this page bookmarked for updates, and follow the local news for any new warnings. Stay safe and take it easy until the skies clear.
India’s 79th Independence Day will be a wet, cooler affair for many regions. Delhi-NCR will see cloudy skies with light to moderate rain, temperatures around 22–33°C, and a high chance of showers during morning and evening. IMD expects heavy rain in parts of Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand, raising risks of waterlogging and landslides. Celebrations at Red Fort should proceed under overcast skies.