Between 1920 and 2020, snowfall in the Alps has decreased by an average of 34%, according to a study coordinated by Eurac Research and published in the International Journal of Climatology.
This study also examined how altitude and climatological parameters such as temperature and total precipitation influence snowfall.
Compilation and Data Analysis of Snowfall in the Alps
Data on snowfall and seasonal precipitation were collected at 46 locations in the Alps. The most recent data was collected from modern weather stations, while historical data was obtained from handwritten records.
Thanks to collaboration with numerous meteorological offices, environmental agencies, volunteer associations, and the University of Trento, it was possible to combine all this information.
Study Results
- General Trend: The recent trend in the Alps is markedly negative, with a 34% decrease in snowfall. From 1980 onwards, a significant decline was observed coinciding with an increase in temperatures.
- Altitude and Region: The most negative trends occur in areas below 2,000 meters in altitude and in southern regions such as Italy, Slovenia, and parts of the Austrian Alps. In the northern alpine regions, such as Switzerland and the northern Tyrol, winter precipitation has increased, but snowfall at lower altitudes has turned to rain due to higher temperatures.
- Impact on Water Reserves: Snow is crucial as a water reserve, feeding glaciers and mountain streams. The decrease in snowfall affects winter sports and all activities and processes that depend on water.
Lack of Snow and Implications for Water Management
Meteorologist Michele Bozzoli, the study’s lead author, emphasizes that the decrease in snowfall can no longer be ignored in planning water management policies.
Snow not only feeds glaciers and mountain streams but also replenishes water reserves gradually as it melts in spring.
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