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A sudden Cloud burst in Uttarakhand today (August 5, 2025) at the upper catchment of the Kheer Ganga river in Uttarkashi. This intense rainwater and debris rushed down the slopes and hit Dharali village, causing flash floods and mudslides that swept away houses, hotels, and roads within minutes. Residents described seeing buildings collapse “like a deck of cards” as muddy water engulfed everything in its path.
Impact on Dharali and Nearby Areas
The floodwaters tore through Dharali village, a tourist and pilgrimage stop, destroying hotels, shops, and homes located along the riverbank.
Rivers split down two sides of the same hill, impacting both Dharali and Sukki village.
As many as 60–70 people were trapped in debris and mud when the disaster struck, leading to rescue operations in extremely difficult terrain.
Casualties and Missing Persons
At least four to five people have been confirmed dead so far.
Various reports suggest between 50 to 100 people remain missing, including 11 Army personnel stationed near Harsil.
Rescue teams have recovered bodies and continue searching for survivors amid the debris.
Rescue and Relief Efforts
Who Is Helping?
Over 225 army personnel, including engineers and ITBP teams, are engaged in rescue efforts. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and SDRF are active on the ground too.
The Indian Air Force is on alert and has used helicopters to transport teams and survivors where roads collapsed or weather prevented ground access.
Authorities have set up makeshift bridges and cleared roads between Harsil and Dharali to move people to safety.
All-Out Support from Govt
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami surveyed the affected areas by helicopter and directed immediate relief action.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi pledged Centre support and monitoring of the situation.
A red alert from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) warns of more heavy rains across Uttarakhand, including Uttarkashi, Chamoli, Pithoragarh, and Tehri districts.
READ MORE: 8.8 Magnitude Earthquake Hits Russia 2025
Was It Really a Cloudburst?
Some experts are questioning whether it was a classical cloudburst or possibly a glacial lake burst. Reports say there was little rain in the area before the disaster, suggesting that a sudden glacial pond breach might have caused the flash flood instead. Scientific analysis is ongoing.
Why This Matters – Broader Context
The dramatic destruction echoes past disasters like the Kedarnath deluge of 2013 and Rishiganga tragedy of 2021. Witnesses said the scene was among the worst they’ve ever seen.
Experts warn that climate change and unchecked development in the Himalayas may be increasing such unpredictable disasters.
FAQs
Q1: What exactly is a cloudburst?
Answer: A cloudburst is a sudden heavy rainfall over a small area in a short time. It often leads to flash floods in hilly regions when water rushes downhill fast.
Q2: How many people are confirmed dead or missing?
So far, between four and five people are confirmed dead. Reports estimate 50 to 100 people may still be missing, including army personnel.
Q3: Which agencies are helping in rescue efforts?
The Indian Army, ITBP, NDRF, SDRF, local police, and the Indian Air Force are working together to rescue survivors and clear roads.
Q4: Is there a weather alert still in force?
Yes, the IMD has issued a red alert for Uttarakhand and predicted more heavy rainfall, including thunderstorms, for the coming days.
Q5: Could climate change have contributed to this event?
Experts suggest rapid, unpredictable disasters like this might be linked to climate change and environmental disruption in Himalayan regions.