Ladakh braces for heavy rain as Met warns of flash floods and landslides

Risk of flash floods, landslides and related hazards likely in many parts

LEH: The Meteorological Centre, Leh has forecast an extended spell of adverse weather across Ladakh over the coming week, warning of widespread rain, thunderstorms and the possibility of moderate to heavy rainfall between July 20 and 25.

According to the weather advisory issued on Sunday morning, the combined influence of the southwest monsoon and an active western disturbance is expected to keep weather conditions unstable across the Union Territory, with the most intense activity likely between July 21 and 23. The forecast aligns with broader weather alerts issued for the western Himalayan region.

For July 19, isolated parts of Zanskar, Kargil and Drass may receive brief spells of rain accompanied by thunderstorms, while the rest of Ladakh is expected to remain hot and humid. On July 20, skies are likely to remain mostly cloudy across most places, with rain, thunderstorms and lightning expected at scattered locations.

The Met Centre has predicted light to moderate rain and thunderstorms at many places from July 21 to 23, with heavy rain or showers possible in some areas during the period. Weather conditions are expected to improve gradually on July 24 and 25, although scattered rain is still likely, before turning fair to partly cloudy across most places on July 26.

The advisory warns that the rainfall spell between July 20 and 25 could be moderate to heavy, increasing the risk of flash floods, landslides and other rain-related hazards in many parts of Ladakh. Residents, tourists and commuters have been advised to exercise caution, as temporary road blockages, closure of mountain passes and flight disruptions are possible, particularly between July 21 and 24.

The Met Centre has also advised farmers to postpone harvesting of crops such as alfalfa until after July 25. Travellers heading to high-altitude areas have been urged to carry essential supplies and remain alert to rapidly changing weather conditions. Tourists have also been reminded about the risks of high-altitude sickness and advised to seek medical attention immediately if symptoms develop.