Leh in Ladakh has recorded its highest monthly rainfall in the past 52 years, with the Meteorological Centre Leh reporting 80.2 mm of rain in August 2025. The figure far surpasses previous records since 1973, marking an exceptional spike in precipitation for the cold desert region known for its arid climate.
Sonam Lotus, director, Meteorological Centre Leh, UT Ladakh said, “According to the data available with MET Centre Leh, 80.2 mm rainfall recorded in the month of August 2025. When we talk about the highest rainfall in 24 hours, it was recorded in 1933. The recent August rainfall (80.2 mm) was continuous and incessant, whereas in 1933, 51.3 mm was recorded in just 24 hours. In August this year, the highest rainfall received in a single day was 37 mm in Leh, while Kargil recorded 33 mm in 24 hours. The record for the highest 24-hour rainfall in Ladakh still dates back nearly a century.”
He further said, “The timing and duration of rainfall matter a lot and this recent spell in August was not ideal for Ladakh as farmers were in the middle of harvesting their crops. Such rainfall has both positive and negative impacts. On the positive side, it helps recharge groundwater. But on the negative side, it has caused mud houses to collapse, uprooted trees and caused other adverse effects, especially from an economic point of view.”
According to the Met Centre Leh data, the earlier highest records stood at 46.4 mm in 1995 and 45.2 mm in 2006. More recent peaks included 28.6 mm in 2017 and 26.6 mm in 2015. However, this year’s rainfall has nearly doubled the previous high, setting an unprecedented benchmark.
The unusual downpour has led to flash floods across Ladakh, soil erosion and damage to infrastructure, as the region’s fragile ecology and traditional housing structures are highly vulnerable to heavy rains.
Sonam Lotus also highlights the role of better communication systems in minimising risks. “Today, communication has become stronger, which helps us warn and prepare people in advance,” he adds. He points out that the region is currently in the peak of the monsoon season. Sonam Lotus explained that July and August are the wettest months for Ladakh. “I have been saying many times that when monsoon currents are strong, monsoon clouds and rains do reach Ladakh and affect the region,” he shared.
On the recent spell, Lotus noted that moderate to heavy rain is being reported across Leh district, with flash floods occurring in some areas. “For rain to happen, there has to be sufficient moisture. Right now, the moisture is coming from the Bay of Bengal and there is also a supplement from western disturbances. These bring westerly-driven moisture from the Arabian Sea, the Black Sea, the Caspian Sea and even the Red Sea. What you see today is the combined effect of the monsoon and western disturbances,” he explained.
He further highlighted that July and August are not only monsoon months but also the hottest period of the year for both Kashmir and Ladakh. “During favourable conditions, Ladakh does witness rain. But during intense spells, it often leads to landslides or flash floods, especially because the soil is loose, topography fragile and ecology highly vulnerable,” Lotus said.
Looking ahead, he warned of more risks in a warming climate. “In the coming years, we can expect more flash floods because we will be living in a warmer environment, unless we mitigate and reduce our carbon footprint. This is not just your or my responsibility, but a collective one,” Lotus cautioned.
He highlighted that climate change is affecting the most vulnerable sections of society. “The impact of climate change is far-reaching and marginalised people are more vulnerable. Weather and climate have no boundaries. If we do not reduce our carbon footprint collectively, we cannot expect to live in a peaceful and green world,” he said.
Lotus pointed to Ladakh as a stark example of the unfolding crisis. “If you want to see and feel the impact of climate change and global warming, come to Ladakh. You will see how glaciers are receding drastically within just two years. The water that flows in our streams comes from glaciers and permafrost beneath the mountains. As these sources shrink, the consequences for our future will be severe,” he said.
The meteorologist stressed that unplanned construction is adding to the risks. He said, “We need scientific planning. When houses and schools are built in flood-prone areas, you are inviting disaster. If you look at Leh and Kargil today, many structures have come up on flood-prone sites. Our planning has to be scientific and meticulous.”
Speaking on climate adaptation, Lotus underlined the resilience of local communities. “As far as Ladakhis are concerned, they are very resilient. Snow is manageable because it is a slow process and we can also forecast it. But he warned that sudden and intense rainfall poses a greater threat. “The most dangerous situation is when you have hot and humid weather and suddenly a localised shower takes place. It can wash away homes within minutes. Such events are very difficult to predict and even early warning is often not enough because people have very little reaction time,” he said.
Speaking about adaptation measures for the people of Ladakh, Lotus emphasised the need for climate-resilient housing and planning. He advised, “Since we are going to witness more convective rainfall in the future, people must construct their houses, schools and other infrastructure accordingly. Traditionally, Ladakhi houses had flat roofs, but now I suggest that before building a house, make sure it has a good water and snow-proof roof while maintaining the tradition. Houses should be constructed more scientifically and in safer locations.”
Lotus further highlighted the importance of preparedness. “We need robust early warning systems for better response. At the same time, the government should come up with strong planning and green policies. The use of cement should be minimised, but houses must remain warm and climate-resilient,” he said.