Dehradun, Jun 7 (IANS): Heavy rains lashed most parts of Uttarakhand on Wednesday, giving much needed relief to people across the hill state.

The Regional Met Office has predicted heavy rains in the hilly regions in the next 48 hours. The plains will also get moderate rainfall.

What began as mild showers late on Tuesday turned into a downpour on Wednesday, officials and residents said.

The state capital Dehradun and districts like Haridwar and Rishikesh were pounded by heavy rains on Wednesday morning.

The mercury fell in the hilly regions and is averaging at around 17-20 degrees Celsius.

Officials have warned that heavy rains will hit Chamoli, Rudraprayag, Nainital and Pithoragarh over the next 24 hours. The rains may be accompanied by hailstorm and gutsy winds.

Chief Secretary S. Ramaswamy has directed the state disaster management department to issue an advisory to all districts to be prepared for possible flash floods.

Landslides have been reported from Malla in Uttarakashi and parts of Mussourie.

The annual 'Chaar Dhaam' pilgrimage is, however, continuing, another official said.