Flash floods in Uttarakhand in August 2025 – widespread destruction due to heavy rains
Uttarakhand,
August 5, 2025:
Severe cloud bursts triggered devastating flash floods in several districts of Uttarakhand, resulting in heavy casualties, widespread destruction and mass displacement. This sudden disaster has once again highlighted the vulnerability of the region to extreme weather events.
Sudden floods caused by cloudburst
On Tuesday, August 5, 2025, cloudburst occurred in Chamoli, Rudraprayag and Pithoragarh districts due to continuous rain. Rivers broke their banks, sweeping away roads, bridges and homes. Landslides exacerbated the crisis, disrupting access to many remote villages.
So far, 48 people have been confirmed dead and more than 70 are missing. Entire low-lying areas were inundated within hours, forcing residents to flee to safer places.
Number of casualties and ongoing rescue operations
So far, 48 people have been confirmed dead and more than 70 are missing. Rescue teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) are making tireless efforts, but the operation is slowing down due to bad weather and inaccessible terrain.
Helicopters are being deployed to evacuate stranded people by air, while rescue teams are evacuating vulnerable people to safer areas. More than 1,500 people have been rescued and evacuated to temporary shelters set up in higher areas.
Infrastructure damage and power outages
The floods have caused heavy damage to the infrastructure of Uttarakhand. Major highways, including the Badrinath National Highway, are still blocked. Many bridges have collapsed, cutting off supply routes to remote areas. Power and water supply lines have been badly disrupted, plunging many areas into darkness and crisis.
Farms along the river have been inundated, destroying crops and further impacting livelihoods. Four Dham Yatras have been postponed due to unsafe roads.
Government response and relief measures
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has announced compensation of ₹4 lakh (£3,800) for the families of the dead. He assured that all resources are being deployed for rescue and relief operations. The state has sought assistance from the Indian Air Force to expedite evacuation efforts.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences and said that the Union Government is providing full support to deal with this crisis.
A Call for Environmental Action
Experts are calling the disaster a direct result of climate change and unchecked ecological degradation in the Himalayan region. Environmentalists have called for strict rules on construction in eco-sensitive areas and urgent upgrading of disaster management systems.
Read more blog:
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