A cloudburst led to flash floods in the high altitude villages of Dharali in Uttarakhand’s Uttarkashi district on Tuesday (August 5, 2025) with several houses being damaged or swept away in the raging waters, according to people in the area.

A team of State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) personnel has been sent to the spot to undertake rescue operations.

The cloudburst took place in the catchment area of the Kheer Ganga river, leading to the devastating floods, locals said.

Situation is being closely monitored: Dhami

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Kumar Dhami said, “The news of heavy losses due to cloudburst in Dharali [Uttarkashi] area is extremely sad and painful. SDRF, NDRF, district administration and other related teams are engaged on war footing for relief and rescue operations.”

Mr. Dhami further said “I am constantly in touch with senior officials in this regard and the situation is being closely monitored. I pray to God for everyone’s safety.”

Ibex brigade mobilised: Indian Army

In a statement, the Indian Army said “A massive mudslide struck Dharali village in the Kheer Gad area near Harsil, triggering sudden flow of debris and water through the settlement.

“Troops of Ibex brigade were immediately mobilised and have reached the affected site to assess the situation and undertake rescue operations. Extent of damage is being ascertained and updates will follow as relief operations unfold,” it said, adding “The Army stands resolute in support of our citizens during this natural calamity.”

‘Hotels, homestays may have been washed away’

About 10-12 people could be buried under the debris, Rajesh Panwar, a villager, told PTI. He said 20-25 hotels and homestays may have been washed away.

There was panic in villages in the area with people scrambling for dry ground. Videos from the area showed a torrent of water rushing down. People could be heard screaming in panic.

(With inputs from Agencies)

This is a developing story and will be updated as more information comes in.