Kargil, April 19: The Kargil district of Ladakh Union Territory along with several adjoining areas, is currently reeling under severe weather conditions, as unrelenting snowfall and heavy rainfall continue to engulf the district. Daily life has come to a near standstill, with residents facing widespread disruption to mobility, communication and essential services.
According to the latest weather bulletin issued by the Meteorological Centre Leh, torrential rain is lashing the lower belts of Kargil and Khalsi, while higher-altitude zones such as Zojila, Drass and Zanskar have received fresh and substantial snowfall, making travel across mountainous terrain treacherous and, in many cases, impossible. Thick cloud cover continues to envelop most of Ladakh, further complicating visibility and operations.
The MeT department has predicted intermittent light to moderate precipitation throughout the region for the rest of the day. However, isolated areas—particularly Kargil, Zanskar and the Zojila Pass—are expected to witness heavy snowfall and rain, raising serious concerns over avalanches, landslides, and the risk of flash flooding in vulnerable areas.
Looking ahead, forecasts indicate that light rain and snowfall may persist in Kargil and Zanskar through 20 April, with Leh district likely to receive scattered showers. A significant improvement in conditions is expected beginning 21 April, as skies are anticipated to turn partly to generally cloudy, with clearer weather projected to prevail between April 22 and April 27.
In response to the worsening situation, the Meteorological Department has issued a red warning valid for the next 24 hours, citing a high probability of landslides and mudslides in hilly and unstable areas. People residing near steep slopes, riverbanks, or known landslide-prone zones have been strongly urged to exercise extreme caution and avoid venturing outdoors unless absolutely necessary.
Local administration has stepped up surveillance and is actively monitoring the developing conditions. Emergency services have been placed on high alert, and all departments concerned have been instructed to stay prepared for rapid response. Citizens are being advised to follow official weather updates and heed safety advisories without delay.
Reports from various parts of the district suggest that power supply has been intermittently disrupted in certain areas, while interior roads leading to remote villages have become impassable due to snow accumulation and waterlogging. There is also growing concern for nomadic and pastoralist communities currently stranded in highland areas, with efforts underway to establish contact and provide assistance. Officials have appealed to the public to remain indoors and to report any emergencies or weather-related incidents to the nearest authorities. Meanwhile, disaster response teams and police units are being mobilised to ensure preparedness in case of evacuations or relief operations. As the district continues to endure these harsh conditions, all eyes are on the weather patterns in the coming days, with the hope that the forecasted improvement from April 21 brings much-needed respite to the affected communities.
