Rescue teams in India are searching for dozens feared trapped following a catastrophic cloudburst that unleashed severe flooding in Uttarakhand's Dharali village, where heavy rains caused widespread devastation.
Cloudburst Triggers Catastrophic Flash Floods in Uttarakhand

Cloudburst Triggers Catastrophic Flash Floods in Uttarakhand
Desperate rescue efforts underway in Dharali village as many remain unaccounted for after sudden deluge.
In the wake of an unexpected cloudburst around 1:30 PM local time, the once-popular tourist destination of Dharali was struck by a torrential downpour, resulting in flash floods that ravaged the area. Dramatic visuals show torrents of muddy water surging through the village, uprooting buildings and overwhelming the local infrastructure. The Kheerganga river overflowed its banks, sending a deluge into the surrounding hilly regions, isolating residents and burying establishments under debris.
Eyewitness accounts describe a chaotic scene where locals attempted to escape from the sudden inundation. Many were left unprepared as the powerful surge surprised the community, with cries for help echoing through the streets. Reports indicate that the historic Kalpkedar temple suffered extensive damage and is now buried under sediment.
As of now, a part of the Bhagirathi river has been obstructed, creating a temporary lake with rising water levels posing threats to nearby towns. Rescue efforts are ongoing, but continuous rain is hampering progress and creating additional risks for those still missing. The army and paramilitary forces are on-site, urging residents to maintain distance from the waters.
Prime Minister Modi expressed his concern over the disaster, stating, “Relief and rescue teams are engaged in every possible effort.” Local officials have confirmed communication difficulties in the area, but rescue teams have been mobilized efficiently to address the situation.
With heavy rains forecasted to continue, the crisis in Dharali remains dire as communities rally for support and recovery.
Eyewitness accounts describe a chaotic scene where locals attempted to escape from the sudden inundation. Many were left unprepared as the powerful surge surprised the community, with cries for help echoing through the streets. Reports indicate that the historic Kalpkedar temple suffered extensive damage and is now buried under sediment.
As of now, a part of the Bhagirathi river has been obstructed, creating a temporary lake with rising water levels posing threats to nearby towns. Rescue efforts are ongoing, but continuous rain is hampering progress and creating additional risks for those still missing. The army and paramilitary forces are on-site, urging residents to maintain distance from the waters.
Prime Minister Modi expressed his concern over the disaster, stating, “Relief and rescue teams are engaged in every possible effort.” Local officials have confirmed communication difficulties in the area, but rescue teams have been mobilized efficiently to address the situation.
With heavy rains forecasted to continue, the crisis in Dharali remains dire as communities rally for support and recovery.