Respite from heatwave in Ladakh from August 1: MeT

Kargil, July 30: The Meteorological Department has forecasted respite from heatwave in Ladakh in upcoming days with predictions for intermittent light to moderate rainfall.

The cold desert region of Ladakh is witnessing unprecedented heatwave during last a couple of weeks with temperatures shooting above 39 degrees Celsius in some areas. “Monsoon is getting active over Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh. Weather very likely to remain cloudy with light rain, may turn adverse sometimes during next one week,” Director MeT center Ladakh Sonam Lotus told Greater Kashmir. “Despite putting our heart and soul, accurate forecast of monsoon shower is very challenging job,” the weatherman added.

“On Wednesday partly to Generally Cloudy most part of the day at most places. Light Rain likely at a few places during evening/night (60% chance), adding that from 1-3 August intermittent light to moderate rain/snow (over peaks) at many places. Possibility of localized brief heavy spells (67-70 percent chance),” the MeT department Leh said.

“Rain/shower can trigger flashflood, mudslide, landslide at sloopy areas. People and all concerned are advised to remain cautious/alert for next one week as chances of localized showe are highly especially during August 1 to 3,” the advisory added.

Notably, Sizzling with day-time high temperatures at almost 36 degree Celsius, Leh-Ladakh, famously known as India’s cold desert, has become too hot that several Indian airlines have announced cancellation of flights. On Monday, IndiGo posted regarding reasons for cancellation of flights and promised a refund for its users in a post on X. “High ground temperatures and runway restrictions in Leh have necessitated the cancellation of all flights for today. If you wish to re-book or claim a refund, We regret the inconvenience caused and appreciate your understanding,” the post read. On Tuesday Due to ongoing weather conditions in Leh, 4 flights (3 IndiGo and one SpiceJet) were been cancelled at Leh Airport, sources said. This is for the straight fourth day that the flight operations at Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport Leh, India’s highest commercial airport, have been affected.