Cloudbursts Devastate Uttarakhand: Eight Dead, Dozens Missing as Rescue Efforts Intensify

A series of cloudbursts struck Uttarakhand between Thursday night and Friday morning, bringing heavy rain and destruction to several districts. The cloudbursts claimed at least eight lives, and more than a dozen people are still missing in the Garhwal and Kumaon regions. Among the most affected areas are Chamoli, Rudraprayag, Tehri, and Bageshwar, where homes, roads, and cattle were badly hit.

The heavy rains caused houses to flood and roads to get blocked by mud and stones. In Bageshwar, three houses were swept away in one village, leaving several residents missing. Local villagers and rescue teams managed to save some people, but others are still being searched for by teams from the police, fire services, and disaster response force.

Chamoli district faced severe damage after a major cloudburst in Dewal block. Some residents are missing, while others have been injured, and many cattle are buried under the debris. District officials responded quickly, sending help and declaring a holiday in all local schools for safety.

Tehri district also suffered from heavy rain, especially in Genwali village. Although there were no deaths, farmlands, water pipes, and electricity lines were damaged, making life difficult for villagers. Authorities are working on repairs and relief.

In Karnaprayag, landslides blocked roads and damaged homes, adding to the trouble caused by rising river water. Machines and police teams are on the ground, clearing debris and helping people who are stranded or in need.

Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami shared his concern on social media, expressing sorrow for the affected families and promising that rescue teams are working at full speed. He also said he is keeping in constant touch with officials to ensure all possible help is given and prayed for the safety of everyone in the region.