Scientists raised alarms over a dramatic decline in snowfall across the Hindu Kush Himalaya mountain range, which reached its lowest level in the past 23 years. The fall threatened the freshwater supply for nearly two billion people.
The region stretches from Afghanistan to Myanmar. It contains the world’s largest ice and snow reserves outside the polar regions, serving as the primary water source for major Asian rivers.
Recent data revealed a 23.6% reduction in snow cover duration compared to long-term averages, marking this as the most severe decline in over two decades. One particular concern is that 13 of the past 22 years have recorded below normal snow accumulation.
Researchers from the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development warn that this could lead to reduced river flows during dry seasons, forcing reliance on the already contaminated groundwater supplies and increasing drought risks across South and East Asia.
The situation highlighted the accelerating impacts of climate change on this critical Third Pole region, which is warming at a rate faster than the global average. Experts stressed the urgent need for improved water management strategies.
The strategies will enhance regional cooperation, and more decisive climate actions will be taken to protect these vital water towers, which are crucial for maintaining agriculture, ecosystems, and communities across the continent.