LEH – The cold desert region of Ladakh has experienced an unprecedented weather event, with Leh recording its highest monthly rainfall in 52 years during August 2025. The Meteorological Centre Leh reported a staggering 80.2 mm of rain, a figure that nearly doubles the previous record and has led to widespread flash floods, soil erosion, and infrastructure damage across the region.
The continuous and intense downpour is a stark deviation from the area’s typical arid climate. According to Sonam Lotus, director of the Meteorological Centre Leh, the recent rainfall was a combined effect of strong monsoon currents and moisture from western disturbances. While the region is accustomed to some rainfall during the monsoon months of July and August, the intensity this year has been “unusually high.” The highest single-day rainfall in August was 37 mm in Leh, while Kargil recorded 33 mm in 24 hours.
The unusual weather has had both positive and negative impacts. On one hand, it has helped recharge groundwater, a critical resource in the dry region. On the other, the heavy rains have caused mud houses to collapse and uprooted trees, leading to significant economic losses for farmers in the middle of their harvesting season.
Climate Change and Unscientific Construction Add to Vulnerability
Meteorologists and environmental experts are warning that such extreme weather events are a clear sign of climate change. Lotus pointed to Ladakh as a microcosm of the global crisis, highlighting how glaciers are “receding drastically within just two years.” He cautioned that a warming climate will likely lead to more frequent and intense flash floods in the future. “If you want to see and feel the impact of climate change and global warming, come to Ladakh,” he stated.
The situation is further compounded by unplanned construction. Many new buildings have been erected in flood-prone areas, making them highly vulnerable to disaster. Lotus stressed the need for “scientific and meticulous planning” to mitigate future risks. He also advised residents to adapt their traditional flat-roofed houses, which are designed for snow, to be more resilient to heavy rain. He suggested incorporating better waterproofing while maintaining traditional aesthetics.
To address the rising threats, Lotus emphasized the need for a collective effort to reduce carbon footprints and develop a more robust early warning system. He also called on the government to implement strong green policies to ensure that future development is both sustainable and climate-resilient.