Schools shut in Leh; Rain, snowfall predicted for next 3 days
Leh, Aug 25: India Meteorological Department’s Meteorological Centre (MET) on Monday issued Red Alert in areas amid inclement weather and predications of heavy rainfall for the next 36 hours and light snowfall in higher reaches for the next 48 hours in Ladakh union territory.
Heavy snowfall over the past 24 hours has disrupted movement along the Khardung-La Pass in Ladakh, one of the highest motorable roads in the world.
Officials confirmed that the snowfall has rendered the road unsafe for vehicular movement, prompting authorities to suspend traffic temporarily. The decision, they added, was taken to avoid accidents on the slippery and snow-covered stretches of the pass.
Snow clearance operations are expected to be launched once weather conditions improve. Meanwhile, travellers have been advised to avoid the route until further notice.
Following an alert from the MET Centre, Authorities in Leh have announced the closure of all Government and Private schools, along with Anganwadi centres, on August 26.
The decision, conveyed through an official order from the office of the Deputy Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer of the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council, comes as the region braces for heavy to very heavy rainfall.
According to the advisory issued by the Meteorological Centre, continuous moderate rainfall has already been recorded across Leh, Zanskar (Padum), Sankoo-Parkachik and other parts of the Union Territory, while the remaining areas remain under dense cloud cover. The forecast indicates that moderate to heavy rainfall is very likely to continue over the next twenty-four hours, with the possibility of isolated areas witnessing intense downpours. The weather is expected to ease after August 26, with lighter showers at a few locations, followed by dry conditions from August 27 to 30.
The department has issued a red alert, warning of possible hazards arising from the spell of heavy rain. Officials cautioned that kutcha houses and weak structures may suffer damage from water seepage or collapse, while roads and low-lying areas face the threat of flooding and waterlogging. Traffic movement across passes is also expected to be disrupted, alongside the risk of localized landslides, mudslides and shooting stones. The rainfall may further affect horticulture and standing crops due to inundation.
Residents and officials have been urged to remain alert and prepared to deal with any untoward situation that may arise during this period. The advisory stresses the importance of readiness, with men and machinery kept on standby for emergency response.
With the closure of schools and Anganwadi centres, families across Leh are expected to keep children indoors as authorities focus on ensuring public safety. The administration has also directed all concerned departments to remain vigilant and work in coordination in case of emergencies.
The announcements underline the continuing vulnerability of Ladakh’s fragile terrain during intense rainfall spells, as the region deals with challenges of infrastructure and accessibility in difficult weather conditions.
Khardung-La, located at an altitude of over 17,500 feet, serves as a key link connecting Leh to the Shyok and Nubra valleys. Any disruption at the pass directly impacts movement of goods, tourists, and locals in the region.
The Meteorological Department has predicted more-light to moderate snowfall in upper reaches of Ladakh over the next 48 hours, urging caution for those planning journeys through high-altitude passes.
