The Hindu Kush Himalayan region has recorded its lowest snow persistence in 23 years, raising serious concerns about water security across Asia. This marks the third consecutive year of below-normal snowfall in the mountains that provide critical water resources to nearly two billion people. Snow persistence—how long snow remains on the ground after falling—was 23.6% below normal during the 2024-2025 winter season, according to the 2025 Snow Update Report by the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD). This deficit threatens water supplies across 12 major river basins that originate in these mountains. “This is an alarming trend,” says ICIMOD … Continue reading Hindu Kush Himalayan Snow Persistence Falls 23.6% Below Normal Threatening Water Security for Nearly 2 Billion