Deaths, Destruction & Horror: Uttarkashi Cloudburst in 5 Key Points

Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand — A devastating cloudburst struck Dharali village in Uttarkashi on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, unleashing violent flash floods and widespread destruction. At least four people have died and around 100 are missing, including Indian Army soldiers involved in rescue efforts.

Here are the top 5 key developments:

1. Around 100 People Missing, Including 11 Soldiers

Union MoS Defence Sanjay Seth confirmed nearly 100 people, including 11 Army personnel, are missing. While 2 soldiers were rescued, 9 remain unaccounted for in the lower Harsil area. Despite the losses, Army units continue with search and relief operations.

2. Death Toll Stands at 4 (Likely to Rise)

Flash floods swept away buildings, homes, and markets in Dharali village. Authorities confirmed 4 deaths, but rescue teams fear the number will increase as more debris is cleared.

3. IMD Issues Red Alert Across 9 Districts

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for Uttarkashi and 8 other districts due to a western disturbance affecting the Himalayan belt. Heavy rainfall is expected in Chamoli, Rudraprayag, Nainital, Almora, Bageshwar, Udham Singh Nagar, Champawat, and Pithoragarh.

4. Another Cloudburst Hits Sukhi Top

Just hours after Dharali, a second cloudburst occurred at Sukhi Top in Uttarkashi, worsening the situation. Relief teams were re-deployed to address the dual-disaster scenario.

5. PM Modi & Amit Shah Monitor Situation

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah have assured swift assistance to Uttarakhand. Modi stated on X, “No stone will be left unturned in providing help.”

Chilling Eyewitness Testimonies

Disturbing videos on social media show locals screaming and being swept away by raging waters. One 60-year-old resident said, “Never seen such horror in my life.” Others were heard saying, “Sab khatam ho gaya (everything is over),” as buildings crumbled.

Helpline Numbers

• District Emergency Operation Centre, Haridwar: 01374-222722, 7310913129, 7500737269 | Toll-Free: 1077, ERSS: 112
• State Emergency Operation Centre, Dehradun: 0135-2710334, 2710335, 8218867005, 9058441404 | Toll-Free: 1070, ERSS: 112