Mongolia struggles through worst winter in nearly 50 years. Mongolia is grappling with its most severe winter in almost half a century, with devastating consequences for both livestock and the people who depend on them for their livelihoods.
The International Federation of the Red Cross has sounded the alarm, reporting that the harsh conditions have claimed the lives of more than 4.7 million animals.
Mongolia struggles through worst winter in nearly 50 years
Deep Snow and Ice Limit Access to Vital Grazing Areas
Since November of last year, approximately 76% of Mongolia has been engulfed in what experts term as White Dzud and Iron Dzud conditions.
These conditions, characterized by extensive snow and ice cover, have critically restricted access to grazing areas essential for the survival of livestock.
Herders Face Severe Threats to Livelihoods
Livestock-dependent Communities Hit Hard
The crisis is particularly dire for herders, whose way of life depends on cattle, goats, and horses.
According to assessments by the Emergency Operation Centre, the severity of this winter’s crisis is expected to be double that of last year’s Dzud event.
Smaller herds face disproportionate risks, with significant challenges anticipated in the recovery process.
Echoes of the 2010 Dzud Event
Impact Projected to Surpass Previous Disasters
Comparisons have been drawn to the significant Dzud event of 2010, which resulted in the loss of 10.3 million livestock and affected nearly a third of Mongolia’s population.
The current crisis is predicted to surpass even those devastating impacts, further exacerbating the challenges faced by herders across the nation.
Families Struggle With Food Shortages and Shelter Loss
Over 7,000 Families in Urgent Need
As the winter deepens, over 7,000 families are grappling with food shortages, while heavy snowfall has buried the traditional homes and shelters of more than 1,000 herder households.
The situation is dire, with 2,257 herder families having already lost over 70% of their livestock, leaving them in urgent need of basic necessities such as healthcare, fuel, and coal.
This dire situation underscores the urgent need for both national and international assistance to mitigate the impact of this historic winter crisis in Mongolia.
