Mongolia’s Winter of Despair — Nearly 5 Million Animals Lost to Brutal Dzud

Mongolia faces an unprecedented crisis as its harshest winter in decades wreaks havoc on its wildlife and nomadic herders.

The phenomenon, known as dzud, has led to the death of nearly 5 million animals, posing a dire threat to livelihoods and food security in the region.

This catastrophic event underlines the urgent need for robust responses and adaptation strategies in the face of escalating climate challenges.

Understanding Dzud

Dzud is a Mongolian term that describes a severe winter following a dry summer, making it impossible for livestock to access food. This year’s dzud has been particularly brutal, with extreme cold and heavy snowfall cutting off access to grazing areas.

As Al Jazeera reports, temperatures have plummeted to as low as -50 degrees Celsius in some parts, creating a life-threatening situation for both animals and humans.

Impact on Livelihoods

Approximately 300,000 people in Mongolia depend on traditional nomadic herding CNN reports. These herders, who move with the seasons to find pasture for their livestock, are now facing destitution.

The International Federation of the Red Cross (IFRC) has reported significant losses, with over 2,250 herder families losing more than 70% of their livestock. This loss not only threatens their immediate food supply and heating but also their ability to generate income in the future.

Climatic Changes and Challenges

The frequency and severity of dzuds in Mongolia have increased, signaling a disturbing trend linked to climate change. Over the past 70 years, Mongolia has seen an average temperature increase of 2.1 degrees Celsius, CNN reports. This has disrupted the traditional four-season cycle, leading to more frequent summer droughts and harsh winters. The changes have made it difficult for herders to prepare adequately, exacerbating the impact of dzuds.

In response to the crisis, the Mongolian government has declared a state of heightened readiness. The IFRC has also launched an appeal for funds to support those affected. However, despite high levels of preparedness, the scale of the dzud has taken many by surprise.

Long-Term Strategies

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has emphasized the importance of bold climate risk solutions to protect Mongolia’s lands and livelihoods. According to UNDP, initiatives such as sustainable water management and the restoration of riparian forests could enhance resilience against future dzuds.

Additionally, the implementation of an early warning system powered by sophisticated climate forecasts could enable local authorities to be more proactive in mitigating the impact of these disasters.

Global Cooperation and Support

Mongolia’s struggle against the dzud is not just a local issue but a global one, given the interconnectedness of climate change impacts. The international community’s support through financing, sharing of data and technologies, and political backing is crucial for Mongolia to overcome this crisis and build long-term resilience.

The upcoming 17th United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification hosted by Mongolia could serve as a pivotal platform for garnering this much-needed global support.

The dzud in Mongolia is a stark reminder of the tangible impacts of climate change on vulnerable communities. It underscores the need for immediate humanitarian aid and long-term strategies to adapt and mitigate the effects of extreme weather events. As the world watches, the resilience and hope of the Mongolian people shine through.