News India Live, Digital Desk: The Himalayas, known as the ‘Water Tower’ of India, are currently going through a strange seasonal phenomenon. The delay and low amount of snowfall in the winter of 2026 has raised alarm bells for the future. This is going to have a direct impact on the flow of perennial (always flowing) rivers like Ganga, Yamuna and Brahmaputra.
1. Impact of ‘late snowfall’ on glaciers
Heavy snowfall, usually in December and January, serves to recharge the glaciers.
Melting Speed: Due to lack of snow falling on time, old glaciers are being directly exposed to the sun’s rays, due to which the rate of their melting is increasing. 20-30% Has increased till.
Negative Mass Balance: According to scientific reports, the ‘mass balance’ of glaciers is deteriorating, that is, more old ice is melting than is being stored.
2. Crisis looming on Ganga and Yamuna
The agriculture and drinking water system of North India is completely dependent on these rivers.
Flow Reduction: If there is not enough snowfall in February and March, the water level of these rivers will increase during the summer season. 15 to 20 percent decline Can be seen.
Shortage of drinking water: There may be a severe water shortage in the cities of Delhi, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand during May-June, as the ‘base flow’ in the rivers will reduce.
3. The game of ‘El Nino’ and Western Disturbance
Main reason behind delay in snowfall this year is weak Western Disturbance Is being considered.
Increase in temperature: The average temperature is below normal even in the higher regions of the Himalayas. 3-5 degrees Celsius More have been recorded.
Wind Pattern: Due to changing wind patterns, moisture-laden winds are weakening even before reaching the Himalayas.
4. Impact on farming and power generation
Apple cultivation: Apple orchards in Himachal and Kashmir are not getting ‘chilling hours’ (time to remain under snow), due to which there is a possibility of reduction in production.
Hydro Power: Decrease in water in rivers will also have an adverse effect on hydropower generation, which may deepen the power crisis.
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