A new study has shown that snowfall in the Alps has decreased substantially: between 1920 and 2020,about a third less snow fell. A significant decline has been recorded as the 1980s.
“The development of new snowfall in the Alps is vrey negative,we can talk about an overall reduction of 34 percent,” said environmental meteorologist Michele Bozzoli Eurac Research in Bolzano. The greatest decline was recorded in places below 2,000 meters and in southern areas, ie Italy, Slovenia and parts of the Austrian Alps. Altitude plays a key role, especially in the northern Alps, Switzerland and North Tyrol. A 23 percent reduction was then seen. In the southwestern part of the Alps it was even half that.
The development does not appear to be due to a lack of precipitation; At lower altitudes the snow changes to rain, and at higher altitudes the snowfall continues due to low enough temperatures. In the south-west and south-east areas the temperatures have risen so much even at higher altitudes that it is no longer snowing but raining.
Lack of water reserves
However, bozzoli mentioned a related problem: “Snow is necessary for water to be available. Without spring meltwater,water reserves cannot be replenished. Snow also protects glaciers and soils from melting and evaporation. This can no longer be ignored in the “political planning of water availability,” he said.
death Study it was published in the International Journal of Climatology. The scientists examined winter data on snowfall and precipitation from 46 stations across the Alpine region. The most recent data was recorded by modern weather stations, the oldest comes from programs where specially commissioned observers manually recorded how many centimeters of snow fell in certain places.
What are the environmental consequences of reduced snowfall in the Alps?
Q&A with Environmental Meteorologist Michele Bozzoli on the Decline of Snowfall in the Alps
Time.news Editor: Thank you for joining us today, Michele. Your recent study highlights a concerning trend in the Alps—snowfall has decreased by approximately 34% from 1920 to 2020. Can you elaborate on the importance of this finding?
Michele Bozzoli: Thank you for having me. The decline in snowfall is alarming, especially since we began recording the most notable reductions from the 1980s onward. This 34% drop is not just a number; it represents reduced winter sports opportunities,altered ecosystems,and potential impacts on water availability in the warmer months.
Time.news Editor: You mention that the greatest declines were noted at lower altitudes and in southern areas, such as Italy and Slovenia.Why is altitude such a crucial factor in snowfall?
Michele Bozzoli: Altitude plays a vital role in determining whether precipitation falls as snow or rain. In regions below 2,000 meters,we are seeing more rain due to rising temperatures. Conversely, at higher elevations, the colder climate can still support snowfall—though not as robustly as before. This is particularly evident in the northern Alps,where we noted a 23% reduction,while southwestern regions experience an even tougher situation with as much as a 50% decrease.
Time.news Editor: This trend raises concerns about the future water reserves in these regions. Can you explain the relationship between snow, spring meltwater, and water availability?
Michele bozzoli: Absolutely. snow acts as a vital natural reservoir.As it melts in spring, it replenishes rivers, lakes, and groundwater reserves. Without adequate snowfall, we risk depleting these water reserves, which are critical not only for ecosystems but also for agriculture and drinking water supply. Additionally, snow insulates glaciers and soil, mitigating evaporation—its absence exacerbates issues related to water management.
Time.news Editor: Given these findings, how should policymakers and industries respond to the changing snowfall patterns?
Michele Bozzoli: Policymakers must incorporate these climatic changes into their planning processes, particularly regarding water availability. It’s essential to develop strategies for water management that consider reduced snowpack. Industries reliant on consistent snowfall, like winter tourism, should adapt by diversifying offerings, including summer attractions, to mitigate the risk of reduced winter sports participation.
Time.news Editor: For our readers, especially those in mountain communities, what practical advice can you provide regarding this situation?
Michele Bozzoli: I encourage residents and community leaders in mountainous regions to actively engage in discussions about sustainable water management and pursue initiatives that enhance water conservation. It’s also significant for communities to advocate for renewable energy sources and practices that can definately help mitigate climate change impacts, as this issue is partly driven by global warming.
Time.news Editor: Thank you for these insights,Michele. Your expertise underscores the necessity of addressing climate change and its implications for snowfall in the Alps.
Michele Bozzoli: thank you for having me and for shedding light on this critical issue. Understanding and addressing the decline in snowfall can definitely help us safeguard our natural resources and ensure the resilience of our communities.