HKH Region

Record Low Snow Persistence: The Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH) region experienced its lowest snow persistence in 23 years during the 2024-2025 winter. This is a critical indicator of future water availability.

Significant Decline: Seasonal snow cover was 23.6% below the 20-year average (2003-2023), the sharpest decline since satellite monitoring began.

Impact on River Basins: All 12 major river basins in the HKH region recorded snow deficits, with the Mekong and Salween rivers experiencing the steepest declines.

Water Security Concerns: Reduced snow cover threatens water security for over two billion people in South Asia who rely on these rivers for agriculture, hydropower, and drinking water.

Contribution to River Flow: Snowmelt from the HKH region contributes nearly 23% of annual river flow, crucial for irrigation, hydropower, and ecosystems.

Impact on India and Pakistan: The Ganga, Brahmaputra, and Indus basins, vital for agriculture and densely populated, recorded significant declines in snow persistence.

Risk of Drought: Reduced snow cover, coupled with weak spring precipitation, could lead to reduced river runoff, greater dependence on groundwater, and a heightened risk of drought.

Glacier Melt: Even with global warming limited to 1.5°C, studies estimate nearly one-third of the HKH region’s glaciers could melt by the end of the century, further threatening seasonal water flows.

Need for Adaptive Strategies: Experts are calling for immediate basin-level adaptive water management strategies, drought preparedness, and stronger regional collaboration.

Irreversible Path: Carbon emissions are putting the HKH region on an irreversible path of recurring snow loss.