Snowfall in the Himalayas is declining sharply, leaving many areas bare when they should be blanketed in white. Meteorologists have noted that in recent winters, there has been significantly less snow compared to averages from 1980 to 2020. While some areas now experience “snow droughts,” warmer temperatures are causing any snowfall to melt faster.
This change is not just visual; it has serious implications for the region. As glaciers continue to melt due to climate change, the decline in winter snowfall exacerbates water shortages for millions who rely on these waterways for drinking, irrigation, and hydropower. The situation is so dire that experts warn it could lead to increased forest fires and unstable ecosystems.
Kieran Hunt, a principal research fellow at the University of Reading, highlights the downward trend. “We see strong evidence that winter precipitation is indeed decreasing,” he said, pointing to a 2025 study that analyzed data from 1980 to 2021. This research revealed a 25% decrease in snowfall over the last five years compared to the historical average.
The Indian Meteorological Department predicted that parts of Northwest India, including regions like Himachal Pradesh and Jammu, may face an astonishing 86% drop in average rainfall and snowfall. This figure stems from the long-term average, assessed over decades.
Challenges are also evident in Nepal, where significant drops in winter precipitation have been noted. Binod Pokharel from Tribhuvan University remarked that this winter has seen little to no rain since October, continuing a troubling trend over the last several years.
Scientists have a concerning method for gauging snowfall: measuring how much snow sticks around. This year, a report by the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development showed a record low of nearly 24% below-normal snow persistence. Such trends heavily affect the water security of nearly two billion people, primarily due to the critical role snowmelt plays in major river basins.
Experts point to weakening westerly disturbances—systems usually responsible for winter precipitation in the Himalayas—as a crucial factor. Historically, these weather patterns helped deliver necessary moisture, but their decreasing strength leads to less snow and rain. Kieran Hunt explains that these shifts further disrupt the region’s delicate water supply systems.
In summary, the Himalayas are facing severe threats from climate change. Fewer glaciers and less snowfall mean increased water scarcity and environmental instability, impacting countless lives and ecosystems. As these changes continue to unfold, the urgency to address climate issues grows ever more critical.
For more detailed data and insights, check the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development.
