The monsoon has intensified across Uttarakhand, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting heavy to very heavy rainfall in several parts of the state on Tuesday. An orange alert has been issued for nine districts, with authorities warning of possible flash floods and urging residents to remain cautious. In view of the forecast, Disaster Management Secretary Vinod Kumar Suman has directed all district administrations to stay on alert. He also advised residents and Char Dham pilgrims to follow weather advisories and avoid unnecessary travel. Schools closed in five districts Following the IMD warning, authorities have declared a holiday for schools up to Class 12 in Pauri, Chamoli, Rudraprayag, Pithoragarh and Bageshwar districts. On Monday, the weather department had issued a heavy rainfall warning for three districts, including Dehradun. While most areas remained cloudy during the day, light to moderate showers were recorded in the evening, with isolated moderate rainfall in the hilly districts. Meanwhile, humid conditions persisted in parts of the plains. Orange and yellow alerts issued across Uttarakhand According to the Meteorological Centre in Dehradun, heavy rainfall is expected across most districts over the next three days. An orange alert has been issued for Uttarkashi, Dehradun, Tehri, Rudraprayag, Chamoli, Udham Singh Nagar, Bageshwar, Pithoragarh and Nainital districts, where heavy to very heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, lightning and intense downpours are likely. A yellow alert has also been issued for the remaining districts, including Haridwar, Pauri, Almora and Champawat, where heavy rain, thunderstorms and intense showers are also possible. The weather department has advised people to stay away from rivers and landslide-prone areas, avoid unnecessary travel and keep track of the latest weather updates. Temperatures across major citiesCityMaximum (°C)Minimum (°C)Dehradun31.625.3Pantnagar34.827.4Mukteshwar20.815.6New Tehri24.217.2