To end dry spell in Kargil, people offer special prayers

Mountains without snow during peak winter in Kargil. -Excelsior/Basharat Ladakhi
Mountains without snow during peak winter in Kargil. -Excelsior/Basharat Ladakhi

Excelsior Correspondent
KARGIL, Jan 13: In an unusual turn of events, the coldest month in the Ladakhi calendar is witnessing an unprecedented dry spell, with Kargil experiencing significantly higher temperatures than the usual chilling range. Typically, this month sees temperatures dipping below -19 to -35, but this year, the lowest recorded temperature is a comparatively mild -10.6.

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Local communities have been actively engaging in special supplications across villages, fervently praying for much-needed snowfall. The region has been facing reduced snowfall in recent years, and this year has been exceptionally dry throughout.
Sonam Lotus, Director of Meteorology Ladakh, has reported that there are no significant changes in the current weather system. Lotus mentioned that the dry spell is expected to persist until January 25, with intermittent cloudy skies.
The impact of this prolonged dry spell extends beyond just a shift in the local weather patterns. It poses challenges to agriculture, water resources, and traditional ways of life. The community remains vigilant, hoping for a change in weather conditions to restore the balance that is integral to their daily lives.
As residents adapt to the evolving climate, they continue to closely monitor weather forecasts and engage in collective efforts to address the challenges posed by this unexpected climatic shift.