DEHRADUN: An avalanche warning was issued for the higher reaches of Uttarakhand for 24 hours starting 5pm on Saturday. Tourists, and residents have also been advised to avoid unnecessary travel.The Avalanche Warning Bulletin (AWB) issued by the Defence Geoinformatics Research Establishment (DGRE), Chandigarh, flagged partially unstable snow conditions and warned of possible natural avalanches at some locations.Avalanche danger level 2 (Yellow) was marked in areas above 2,800m in Uttarkashi, Rudraprayag, Pithoragarh and Bageshwar. In Chamoli, the warning was higher, with danger level 3 (Orange) indicated for regions above 3,000m, where medium-sized avalanches are considered likely.The state disaster management department has placed all identified districts on alert and directed officials to regulate movement in high-altitude zones. District administrations were instructed to keep rescue teams and resources on standby, raise awareness among tourists and locals, and ensure field-level preparedness in case of emergencies.Secretary (disaster management and rehabilitation) Vinod Kumar Suman urged people to avoid avalanche-prone areas and follow safety advisories issued by district authorities. “The state govt is continuously monitoring the situation, and further action will be ensured as required based on information received from DGRE and the Meteorological Department,” he said.He reviewed the situation on Saturday from the State Emergency Operation and directed officials to remain in 24×7 alert mode, streamline public services, and prioritise restoration of closed roads.
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