Heavy Rain Triggers Cloudburst in Tharali, Chamoli: Homes and Vehicles Hit, Rescue Underway

National News: Tharali town in Chamoli district, Uttarakhand, faced severe damage after a sudden cloudburst late Friday night. Torrents of water mixed with mud swept through residential areas, the SDM’s residence, and the tehsil office complex. Authorities reported that a young woman may be trapped under the debris, sparking urgent rescue operations.

Rescue and Relief Efforts Underway

Local police and administration teams immediately responded to the disaster. Rescue crews are working to clear debris, assist affected families, and assess damage. Several vehicles in the tehsil complex were crushed under mud, and many buildings and shops suffered extensive damage. Due to safety concerns, the district administration declared a holiday for all schools up to grade 12 and Anganwadi centers in Tharali tehsil on Saturday.

Extent of the Damage

The cloudburst struck around 1 a.m., sending fast-flowing water and debris into multiple parts of the town. Roads were submerged, making travel difficult. The SDM residence and tehsil office were heavily impacted, with walls and structures collapsing under the force of the mud. Vehicles parked in these areas were buried or destroyed.

Villages and Residents Affected

Nearby villages such as Sagwara, Radibagarh, and Kotdeep were also severely impacted. In Sagwara, a young woman was reported missing after being trapped under mud, prompting urgent rescue operations. Residents fled their homes as floodwaters and debris poured through the town. BlockheadPraveen Purohit confirmed that three separate cloudburst incidents occurred. Near the house of Tharali Nagar Panchayat chairperson Sunita Rawat, debris piled up to 10–12 feet, causing major damage to surrounding properties.

Structural Damage and Safety Measures

The SDM residence suffered a broken wall, and several shops in the Tharali market were washed away. Landslide debris entered homes, leaving residents stranded. With continuous rainfall in the area, authorities are advising people to move to safer locations. Police and local officials remain on high alert, working round-the-clock to evacuate trapped individuals, clear debris, and provide emergency assistance.

Community and Government Response

The Tharali cloudburst highlights the severe impact of sudden heavy rainfall in hilly regions. Authorities continue to monitor weather updates, coordinate with relief organizations, and ensure that affected residents receive support. The ongoing efforts aim to minimize casualties and protect property while managing the aftermath of the disaster.