All schools from Classes 1 to 12 and Anganwadi centres in Dehradun district will remain closed on Tuesday, September 1, following an Orange Alert for heavy to very heavy rainfall, thunderstorms and lightning. The one-day closure was ordered by the Dehradun district administration as a precautionary disaster-management measure after the latest weather forecast and nowcast indicated the possibility of intense to extremely intense spells of rain over the next 24 hours.

Which schools will remain closed?

The order covers government, government-aided, private and non-government schools operating Classes 1 to 12 across Dehradun district. All Anganwadi centres in the district are also covered.The District Magistrate and chairperson of the District Disaster Management Authority directed the Chief Education Officer and District Programme Officer to ensure that the order is implemented across the district.

Why have schools been closed?

The India Meteorological Department has issued an Orange Alert for Dehradun, warning of heavy to very heavy rain, lightning and isolated spells of extremely intense rainfall. The administration said such conditions could increase the possibility of accidents and other weather-related incidents. The school closure has therefore been announced to reduce risks to students, teachers and staff.

Heavy rain already affecting Dehradun

The closure comes after heavy rainfall caused disruption in several parts of the district. Six rural roads were reported blocked, while rain damaged roads and houses and pushed some rivers close to or above warning levels. The Tons River was flowing above its warning level, while the Yamuna near Dakpatthar was reported to be just below the warning mark. Authorities also evacuated some houses in areas affected by landslides and rain-related damage. Several parts of Dehradun city also experienced waterlogging following heavy rain, with traffic affected on major roads and response teams deployed in affected areas.

Ganga water level rises in Rishikesh

The impact of the continuing rainfall is also being monitored in Rishikesh, where the Ganga's water level has risen. Officials said the river remained below the warning mark, but SDRF, Water Police and disaster-response teams have been deployed at major ghats as a precaution. Authorities have also been using public announcements to advise tourists, devotees and residents to exercise caution around the river and avoid risky activities.

What happens after September 1?

The current order covers one day — September 1. Any further closure will depend on the weather situation and subsequent instructions from the district administration. The wider weather situation remains active, with heavy rainfall and thunderstorms expected in parts of Uttarakhand. Parents and students should therefore follow official district-level announcements for any further changes.