Cloudburst Triggers Flash Floods, 4 Dead, Dozens Missing Uttarakhand

A devastating cloudburst in the Kheer Ganga river catchment area triggered flash floods in Dharali village, Uttarkashi district, Uttarakhand, causing widespread destruction and loss of life. The sudden surge of muddy water swept away at least 20 to 25 hotels and homestays, with several houses destroyed and multiple people feared trapped under debris, including reports of at least four confirmed deaths and fears of more casualties. Rescue operations involving the Army, State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and local authorities are ongoing amid challenging conditions and poor connectivity. The cloudburst also impacted livestock, with reports of goats swept away in nearby areas, underscoring the severe extent of the flooding. Authorities, including Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, have urged caution as the India Meteorological Department forecasts continued heavy rainfall in the region, warning locals and tourists to avoid vulnerable areas. Similar incidents of flash floods due to heavy rainfall are reported in nearby regions, with rescue efforts underway for missing persons.