KATHMANDU: April 21, 2025: The Hindukush-Himalaya (HKH) region has recorded its lowest snow persistence in 23 years, marking the third consecutive year of below-normal snowfall.
According to the 2025 Snow Update Report released today by the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD), experts warn that this trend poses serious risks to water security for nearly two billion people across 12 major river basins.
The report reveals that snow persistence – the duration snow remains on the ground after falling – fell by an alarming 23.6%, a vicennial record low. The Mekong and Salween river basins saw the steepest declines, at -51.9% and -48.3%, respectively.
“Carbon emissions have already locked in an irreversible course of recurrent snow anomalies in the HKH,” said Dr. Pema Gyamtsho, Director General of ICIMOD.
“To tackle this snow crisis and its cascading impact on food, water, and energy security, we must adopt forward-looking, science-based policies and strengthen regional cooperation.”
Seasonal snowmelt contributes roughly 25% of annual river runoff, with higher dependence in western basins. Reduced snowpack threatens to worsen early summer water shortages, especially in downstream areas already struggling with rising heatwaves.
According to lead author Sher Muhammad, the consecutive years of snow deficits signal a troubling trend.
“While the western basins saw a slightly smaller deficit this year, the eastern basins have now seen sharp declines. Each region must urgently assess its local conditions and act accordingly,” he said.
Key Basin Findings
Ganges Basin: Snow persistence dropped to -24.1%, the lowest in 23 years.
Indus Basin: Recorded -16% snow persistence, down from a low of -24.5% last year.
Yangtze Basin: Posted a -26.3% anomaly, threatening hydropower output.
Brahmaputra Basin: Declined from a 2019 peak to -27.9% this year.
Tibetan Plateau: Saw a sharp drop to -29.1%, highlighting climate sensitivity.
ICIMOD urges immediate action including adaptive water management, seasonal water storage systems, improved efficiency of meltwater use, and the integration of snow data into national planning.
The report emphasizes that climate-resilient infrastructure and regional collaboration are essential to navigate future water challenges in the HKH.