Uttarakhand Flash Flood 2025: Cloudburst Hits Dharali Village, Over 100 Missing, 4 Dead

On the afternoon of 5th August 2025, a powerful cloudburst hit Dharali village in Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, causing flash floods and widespread destruction. Entire homes were washed away, several shops submerged, and part of a military camp was also affected. As per official updates, at least four people have lost their lives while over 100 are still missing.

What is a Cloudburst and Why Does It Happen in the Hills?

A cloudburst is a weather phenomenon where extremely heavy rainfall occurs over a small area in a short period. This sudden downpour leads to flash floods, landslides, and river overflows. In Dharali, over 210 mm rainfall was recorded in just 24 hours.

Experts believe that the increasing frequency of such events in Uttarakhand is due to climate change, rising temperatures, and rapid melting of Himalayan glaciers.

Scene of Destruction in Dharali

• Nearly 40-50 houses were either damaged or completely swept away.

• Several hotels, homestays, and local shops were destroyed.

• The main market area is now buried under mud and debris.

• An army camp in the region was also partially submerged.

• At least 18 cattle died in the incident.

• In some areas, debris piled up as deep as 15 metres.

Casualties and Missing Persons

So far, authorities have confirmed 4 deaths, and the number may rise as rescue teams search through the rubble.
Over 100 people are reported missing, including civilians and army personnel.

Massive Rescue Operation Underway

• Teams from the Indian Army, NDRF (National Disaster Response Force), and SDRF (State Disaster Response Force) are carrying out rescue and search operations.

• More than 190 people have been rescued so far.

• Drones, sniffer dogs, and heavy equipment are being used to locate people trapped under the debris.

• Temporary relief camps have been set up nearby to shelter affected families.

• Three helicopters are on standby for aerial rescue and supply drops.

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami visited the site to assess the situation and assured full government support. The Prime Minister’s Office is also monitoring the situation closely.

Weather Warning and Ongoing Risks

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for heavy rainfall in Uttarakhand till 10th August. Locals and tourists have been advised to stay alert and avoid riverbanks and steep slopes.

According to environmental experts, the increasing intensity and frequency of cloudbursts in the Himalayas is directly linked to deforestation, unplanned construction, and rapid climate shifts.

Why Dharali is So Vulnerable

Dharali is a small village near Gangotri, located beside the Khir Ganga river, which becomes extremely dangerous during monsoons. The fragile terrain, along with recent road and tourism-related construction, has made the region more prone to disasters.

Impact on Locals and Tourism

• The entire tourism industry in the area has been brought to a halt.

• Several families have lost their homes, belongings, and livelihoods.

• The route to Gangotri Dham has been temporarily closed for safety.

• Local businesses say it could take months to recover from the losses.

People are still searching for their missing loved ones, and the entire region is in deep shock.