Zojila Pass Faces High Risk of Closure as Heavy Snowfall and Western Disturbance Lash Ladakh

LEH, LADAKH | March 17, 2026 — The Meteorological Centre in Leh has issued a significant weather and travel advisory for the Ladakh region, warning of a potent Western Disturbance set to impact the area starting tomorrow.

According to the latest bulletin issued at 6:00 PM IST, residents and travelers should prepare for a shift from current cloudy conditions to intermittent light-to-moderate rain and snow across scattered locations.

The most intense weather activity is expected between March 19th and 20th, with a high probability of heavy snowfall specifically targeting high-altitude zones such as Zojila, Minamarg, and Shinkula.Authorities have placed the Zojila Pass on High Risk alert, citing a strong likelihood of closure from March 18th through the 21st.

Experts warn that these closures could extend beyond the 22nd if the region experiences secondary hazards like avalanches or dangerously strong winds. Because the incoming precipitation may trigger landslides and snow slides, the advisory explicitly labels the weather as “unfavorable” for outdoor activities and travel during this window.

In addition to the Kargil district and Zanskar areas being heavily affected, the forecast indicates that while the main activity subsides by the 21st, the weather will remain generally cloudy and windy before turning mainly dry from March 22nd to 25th.

Travelers are urged to exercise extreme caution, stay updated on the latest road status, and prioritize safety as the Western Disturbance moves through the northern frontier.