Heavy Rainfall Expected in Uttarakhand, UP Over Next 3 Days Due to Depression

A depression originating over central India is set to bring significant rainfall across northern regions, including Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, and adjacent areas, according to the latest update from the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

As of Thursday, the depression was located approximately 50 kilometers south-southeast of Agra and 50 kilometers north-northeast of Gwalior. The IMD forecasts that the system will continue moving towards the north-northeast and gradually weaken by Friday.

Uttarakhand is anticipated to see "light to moderate rainfall from September 12 to 14," with "heavy to extremely heavy rainfall in isolated areas." Meanwhile, Haryana is expected to experience "light to moderate rain, with heavy rainfall at times between September 12 and 15."

The forecast for Uttar Pradesh indicates "heavy to extremely heavy rainfall" in both eastern and western parts of the state during this period. In Madhya Pradesh , heavy rainfall is expected on September 12, followed by moderate to heavy rain over the next few days. West Rajasthan will see heavy rainfall on September 12, with eastern regions receiving "heavy to very heavy rainfall" on September 12 and 13.

According to rainfall measurements, "rainfall measuring between 64.5 mm and 115.5 mm is considered 'heavy,' between 115.6 mm and 204.4 mm 'very heavy,' and above 204.5 mm 'extremely heavy.'"

Skymet, a private weather forecasting agency, predicts that the system is likely to re-curve northeastward, moving away from the national capital towards west Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand. "The heavy rainfall belt will also shift along with the system," Skymet added, noting that the depression is expected to weaken rapidly to a low-pressure area within the next 24 hours due to the proximity of rugged terrain.

The IMD has issued a warning about a "moderate to high risk of flash floods" in several areas, particularly in parts of west Uttar Pradesh and east and west Madhya Pradesh . There is a potential for surface runoff and flooding in low-lying, fully saturated areas.

The heavy rainfall may lead to localized flooding of roads, waterlogging in low-lying areas, and the closure of underpasses, especially in urban regions. Traffic disruptions are likely due to waterlogged roads, with reduced visibility in some areas. The IMD also warned of potential minor damage to kutcha (unpaved) roads, vulnerable structures, landslides, and damage to crops due to rain and wind.