Record decline in Hindu Kush Himalaya weakest snow season in 23 years serious climate change warning

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): Climate change is no longer a future threat but a present reality. Rising global temperatures are clearly affecting weather patterns across the world. Delayed winters, rapidly melting snow in mountainous regions, and rising sea levels are strong indicators of potential large-scale disasters ahead. In this context, the latest data from the Hindu Kush Himalaya once again highlights the seriousness of climate change.

According to satellite data released by the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD), the Hindu Kush Himalaya region has recorded the lowest snowfall in more than two decades. The report states that this has been the weakest snow season in the last 23 years, which is a matter of serious concern for the region’s fragile ecosystem.

Earlier, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) had also warned about the impact of rising global temperatures. As per the IPCC, continuous warming is shortening the snowfall season. Snow will remain for a much shorter duration in high-altitude areas, and the snow-covered Himalayan peaks may gradually turn rocky in appearance.

The Hindu Kush Himalaya is often referred to as Asia’s “water tower” because many major rivers originate from this region. These rivers support the lives of millions of people and play a crucial role in agriculture and greenery across vast plains. Reduced snowfall and rapidly melting glaciers could lead to severe challenges such as water shortages, floods, and droughts in the future.