North India is currently grappling with widespread heavy rainfall and disrupted weather patterns, prompting a rain alert for Delhi-NCR and the ongoing suspension of the arduous Amarnath and Kedarnath Yatras. Incessant downpours have triggered landslides, flash floods, and severe disruptions, highlighting the intense grip of the ongoing monsoon season.
Delhi-NCR Braces for More Rain:
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for light to moderate rain and thunderstorms in Delhi-NCR for today, Saturday, August 2, 2025. While some areas may experience light rain during the day, heavier showers are forecast for the night. The maximum temperature is expected to be around 31∘C and the minimum around 27∘C. For Sunday, August 3, scattered thunderstorms are predicted for the day, followed by light rain at night, with a high chance of precipitation. Temperatures are expected to range from 27∘C to 32∘C. Residents are advised to prepare for potential waterlogging and traffic congestion, particularly in low-lying areas, as the monsoon remains active.
Uttarakhand on High Alert, Yatras Halted:
Uttarakhand is bearing the brunt of the monsoon’s fury. The IMD has issued a yellow alert for heavy rainfall in districts including Dehradun, Tehri, Pauri, Rudraprayag, Nainital, and Bageshwar for Saturday. Heavy to very heavy thunderstorms are forecast for Sunday as well, with a high chance of rain continuing into next week.
The ongoing heavy rains in the mountainous state have led to the suspension of both the Amarnath Yatra and the Kedarnath Yatra for pilgrim safety.
- Amarnath Yatra: The annual pilgrimage to the holy Amarnath cave shrine has been suspended for the second consecutive day from Jammu and will remain halted until at least August 3. This decision comes due to relentless downpour in Jammu and Kashmir and the urgent need for repair and maintenance work on the pilgrimage routes. Authorities have stated that no fresh batch of pilgrims is being allowed to proceed from the Bhagwati Nagar base camp in Jammu. The Baltal and Pahalgam tracks have suffered damage, making them unsafe for travel. Over 4 lakh pilgrims have paid obeisance at the ice lingam this year since the yatra commenced on July 3.
- Kedarnath Yatra: The Kedarnath Yatra remains suspended for the third consecutive day. A massive landslide at Munkatiya between Sonprayag and Gaurikund in Rudraprayag district has washed away a 50-meter stretch of the road, severing the main route for both vehicles and pedestrians. While over 4,100 pilgrims have been rescued and safely brought to Sonprayag, more than 5,000 pilgrims are currently halted at the Sonprayag camp. Officials are working to clear debris and restore routes, but continuous rainfall and falling boulders are hindering efforts. The route is expected to take at least two to three days to reopen, depending on weather conditions. Pilgrims planning to visit Kedarnath Dham are urged to postpone their journey for the next few days.
Himachal Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh Also Affected:
Neighboring Himachal Pradesh has also witnessed cloudburst incidents and landslides, leading to flooding and blocking major highways, stranding hundreds of vehicles. In Uttar Pradesh, the Ganga river has breached its warning mark in Varanasi, and both the Ganga and Yamuna are flowing just below the danger mark in Prayagraj, affecting multiple localities and villages.
Authorities across North India are urging residents to exercise extreme caution, avoid unnecessary travel, and stay updated with official advisories as the monsoon continues its intense spell.
