Uttarakhand Weather Update: Snowfall and Rain Lash Hill Regions, Cold Wave Returns (Watch Video)

Nature has finally turned generous in Uttarakhand. Rain and snowfall have begun across the four Char Dham shrines and several mountainous regions, bringing a sharp drop in temperatures. Even the lower areas are witnessing rainfall, causing winter-like conditions to return with full intensity. Kedarnath and Badrinath are experiencing heavy snowfall, resulting in biting cold, while Gangotri and Yamunotri are also gripped by icy conditions. In line with weather department forecasts, higher-altitude regions are receiving heavy rain and snowfall today, dramatically altering weather patterns across the hill state and restoring a wintry chill after a prolonged dry spell.

Few expected such heavy snowfall with the season’s first rain, but weather conditions shifted noticeably from early morning. Continuous rain accompanied by snowfall has caused temperatures to plunge once again. The changing mood of nature is evident, as the period around Vasant Panchami usually signals the onset of warmer days. This year, however, the festival has coincided with the return of severe cold. Snowfall and rain have reinforced winter conditions, surprising residents and travelers alike, and highlighting how unusual and unpredictable the current weather cycle has become across Uttarakhand’s hills and valleys.

#WATCH | Uttarakhand: Fresh snowfall recorded in New Tehri township. Due to the snowfall, the entire area is seen blanketed under a white sheet of snow. pic.twitter.com/UqsbKMW7wu

— ANI (@ANI) January 23, 2026

In Uttarkashi district, snowfall has been ongoing since morning in several areas, including the Gangotri and Yamunotri shrine regions. At the same time, lower-lying locations are receiving steady rainfall, leading to a noticeable fall in temperatures. The combined effect of snow in higher reaches and rain below has intensified the cold. Roads, rooftops, and open spaces are gradually being covered, while locals brace for harsher conditions. The sudden shift has disrupted daily routines but has also brought much-needed moisture to the region after months of dry weather.

The state had been facing prolonged dryness since the end of the monsoon season, and the absence of snowfall had increased anxiety among farmers and orchard owners. Agriculture and horticulture in the hills depend heavily on rain and snow. The recent snowfall has therefore brought significant relief, easing concerns about soil moisture and future crop yields. Farmers and gardeners have welcomed the change, seeing it as vital for sustaining crops, fruit orchards, and water sources. The return of precipitation has restored hope for the rural economy, which relies closely on seasonal weather patterns.

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Heavy snowfall is being reported in Gangotri and Yamunotri areas, as well as in the Harshil Valley, Yamuna Valley, and regions such as Dhari Kafnol, Kharsali, and nearby high-altitude villages. In contrast, lower regions experienced light winds and intermittent drizzle from morning, which turned into heavier rainfall by afternoon. As rain intensified, temperatures dropped further, increasing the chill factor. The mix of snow-covered peaks and rain-soaked valleys has transformed the landscape while significantly impacting mobility and daily life across these regions.

Season’s first snowfall has also been recorded in the higher areas of Chakrata and the Jaunsar-Bawar region. In Chakrata, the snowfall has delighted tourists and provided a boost to the tourism sector. Farmers and orchard owners in these areas are equally pleased, as the snowfall is beneficial for crops. Snow has been falling steadily since Friday morning across elevated locations. The fresh white cover has revitalized the region, drawing visitors and creating optimism among locals who depend on tourism and agriculture for their livelihoods.

For tourism operators and hotel owners, this snowfall has come as a lifeline. Areas such as Chakrata Cantonment Market, Lokhandi Koti, Kanasar, Deoban, Aloo Mandi, and Chirmiri Top are blanketed in snow, creating picturesque views. A thick layer of snow now covers Chakrata, raising expectations of renewed tourist inflow. Meanwhile, Dehradun has been experiencing continuous rainfall since morning, which intensified by afternoon. According to the Meteorological Department, such weather is expected to persist until January 28, with an orange alert issued for rain and snowfall in mountainous regions.