What is causing the snow drought in Gilgit-Baltistan?

The snow drought in Gilgit-Baltistan is primarily caused by climate change, exacerbated by local environmental degradation factors like deforestation and increased human activity.

What are the risks of a snow drought in Gilgit?

A snow drought in Gilgit poses risks such as increased downstream flood potential due to rapid glacial melt and disruption of the region's fragile ecosystem.

How has climate change affected Gilgit-Baltistan's weather?

Climate change has led to later snowfall, lower snow accumulation, higher temperatures, and an increase in climate-linked hazards like flash floods in Gilgit-Baltistan.

Home / Environment / Gilgit-Baltistan Faces Alarming Snow Drought This Winter

Gilgit-Baltistan Faces Alarming Snow Drought This Winter

18 Jan

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Summary

Below-normal snowfall leaves Gilgit-Baltistan unusually dry this winter.
Experts warn 'snow drought' could increase downstream flood risk.
Climate change and local factors disturb the region's fragile ecosystem.

Gilgit-Baltistan Faces Alarming Snow Drought This Winter

Gilgit-Baltistan is grappling with a significant snow drought this winter, a stark indicator of climate change impacts. Below-normal snowfall has left much of the region unusually dry, with areas like Skardu and Ghizer receiving minimal snow, contrary to typical mid-January conditions. Residents have observed a pattern of later and lighter snowfall over the past two years, coupled with unusually high temperatures extending into December.

Experts from the Gilgit-Baltistan Environmental Protection Agency highlight that this shift in winter patterns, characterized by late and insufficient snowfall, disrupts the region's fragile ecosystem. The reduced snowpack limits its ability to compact and form ice, leading to rapid melting during summer. This accelerates glacial melt and increases the risk of flash floods downstream.