LEH: A Western Disturbance is set to impact the Union Territory of Ladakh from December 31 to January 1, bringing widespread cloudiness and light to moderate snowfall across several regions, according to the latest weather forecast issued on December 27.
The forecast indicates that cloud cover will prevail throughout Ladakh during the period, with light to moderate snowfall likely at scattered locations in the Kargil, Zanskar and Siachen regions.
The Zoji La–Drass axis is expected to witness enhanced snowfall activity, with light snow possible on the night of December 30 and more pronounced snowfall on December 31.
Weather models further suggested that light to moderate snowfall will occur at scattered places over the Zoji La–Kargil–Zanskar belt and over higher reaches of Leh district, while heavy snowfall — up to 10 inches — may occur on the Zoji La Pass.
Forecast details revealed that Ladakh will remain fair to partly cloudy on December 27, while December 28 and 29 are expected to be mostly cloudy, with a possibility of light snowfall over some peaks in the Kargil and Siachen areas. December 30 is likely to remain cloudy for most of the day, followed by snowfall activity intensifying from the night.
Meanwhile, minimum temperatures across the region have already dropped sharply, reflecting the severity of winter conditions. Drass recorded the coldest minimum at minus 18.1°C, followed by Nyoma at minus 15.3°C, Padum at minus 14.5°C, and Leh at minus 9.9°C, underscoring the harsh weather prevailing across Ladakh.
Authorities have issued an advisory warning of a high risk of temporary disruption of transportation over Zoji La during December 31 and January 1 due to snowfall and poor visibility.
Commuters, tourists and transport operators have been advised to stay updated with official weather bulletins and plan their travel accordingly to avoid inconvenience and ensure safety.
