Guwahati: The Brahmaputra basin has recorded below-normal snow persistence for the second consecutive year, raising concerns over early summer water availability, hydropower generation, and agriculture across Northeast India, according to the latest HKH Snow Update 2026 by the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD).
The report states that snow persistence in the Brahmaputra basin declined by 6.1% below normal during the winter period from November 2025 to March 2026, continuing a negative trend observed last year.
The Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH) region depends heavily on the cryosphere—frozen water on the Earth’s surface—as a key source of freshwater for over two billion people living in the mountains and downstream. On average, snowmelt contributes around 23% of total river runoff in the region.
“Between 2003 and 2026, the HKH region experienced 14 winters with below-normal snow persistence, emerging as a recurrent pattern with increasing frequency and intensity,” the report, authored by ICIMOD scientist Sher Muhammad, said.
“This year marks the fourth consecutive year of below-normal snow persistence, with levels declining to 27.8% below average, breaking last year’s record deficit of 23.6%,” it added.
Snow persistence—defined as the duration snow remains on the ground after snowfall—is a critical indicator of river flows in the HKH region, which feeds major rivers including the Brahmaputra.
Impact on Brahmaputra basin
The report notes that although the decline in the Brahmaputra basin is less severe than in western river systems, the implications remain significant.
“Snow persistence was highest at 27.7% above normal in 2019 and lowest at 27.9% below normal in 2025. The below-normal trend continues in 2026, though the decline is less steep at 6.1% below normal,” the report said.
“This continued negative snow anomaly could adversely impact hydropower generation and agriculture, especially in early summer, and highlights the need for integrated water resource management and drought risk planning,” it added.
Snowmelt plays a crucial role in sustaining river flows during the pre-monsoon months. A reduction could lead to lower runoff, affecting irrigation, drinking water supply, and power generation in downstream regions such as Assam.
Often referred to as the “Third Pole,” the HKH region provides freshwater to nearly two billion people.
The report notes that 10 of the 12 major river basins recorded below-normal snow persistence this year, while the Ganges and Irrawaddy basins saw above-normal snow levels.
Experts warn that reduced snow reserves could translate into water stress during spring and early summer, particularly if accompanied by below-normal rainfall.
The report calls for early warning systems, improved water allocation, strengthened drought preparedness, and greater regional cooperation.
With climate variability intensifying, ICIMOD emphasised the need for adaptive, science-based water management policies to mitigate risks in snow-dependent river systems such as the Brahmaputra.
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