Rescue operations are underway in Uttarakhand’s Uttarkashi district, where a powerful cloudburst has triggered intense rainfall and flash floods, leaving dozens feared trapped. Emergency teams, including the Indian Army and paramilitary forces, have reached Dharali village, the hardest-hit area, to conduct search and rescue missions.
Uttarakhand Cloudburst and flash floods
Shocking videos of the disaster capture a massive wave of muddy water surging through Dharali, demolishing buildings in its wake. Known as a popular tourist spot, Dharali is home to numerous hotels, resorts, and restaurants, amplifying the scale of the destruction. A cloudburst, characterized by an extreme and sudden downpour over a small area, often results in such catastrophic flash floods.
#Uttarakhand cloudburst: Flash floods hit #Uttarkashi; several villagers washed away
— The Times Of India (@timesofindia) August 5, 2025
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The incident occurred around 1:30 PM IST , when torrential rain swelled the Kheerganga River, unleashing a deluge of muddy water across the hilly terrain. This flood engulfed roads, buildings, and shops in Dharali. Nearby eyewitnesses, who recorded the chaos, were heard shouting “run, run” and blowing whistles, but the rapid surge left little time for escape. They suspect many are trapped beneath the debris.
The ancient Kalpkedar Temple is also believed to be damaged, buried under sludge, according to locals. The overflow from Kheerganga has obstructed a section of the Bhagirathi River—later revered as the Ganges—and formed an artificial lake, submerging large areas, including a government helipad. Authorities are increasingly concerned that failure to drain this water could endanger downstream towns and villages.
Army personnel on-site are issuing warnings, urging people to avoid the floodwaters. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences on social media, stating, “I pray for the well-being of all victims… Relief and rescue teams are making every possible effort, leaving no stone unturned to assist.” For more on government responses, explore our coverage of recent natural disasters.
Uttarkashi’s senior official, Prashant Arya, noted that poor connectivity has disrupted communication, complicating rescue efforts. “Given the area’s dense population of restaurants and hotels, we’ve sent rescue teams immediately,” he said. Located just 2 km from the tourist hub Harsil, which hosts a major army base, and near an Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) camp, Dharali benefits from the rapid deployment of these forces. However, ongoing heavy rains are expected to slow rescue operations.
Some injured individuals are receiving care at the Harsil army camp. For updates on relief efforts, check our latest news section.