Cryosphere and Water Resources Monitoring for Informed Decision-Making Process in Central Asia

Abstract Snow plays a critical role in shaping the hydrological cycle of Central Asia, a region characterized by arid and semi-arid climates. The region's major water systems, including the Amu Darya and Syr Darya rivers, are heavily reliant on snowpack and glacial melt from the high-altitude ranges like the Pamirs, Tien Shan, and Altai mountains. These mountain systems serve as a natural reservoir, storing water during the cold period in form of snow and glaciers and gradually releasing it in the spring and summer, thereby sustaining river flows during the critical growing season for agriculture. This seasonal snowmelt regulates water availability, supports ecosystems, and underpins the livelihoods of millions who depend on agriculture and hydropower. However, climate change poses significant challenges by altering snowfall patterns, accelerating snowmelt, and reducing snow cover. These changes can lead to a mismatch between water supply and demand, exacerbating water scarcity and inter-regional competition for resources. Enhanced understanding and monitoring of snow's contribution to water resources are essential for adaptive water management strategies and ensuring sustainable development in the face of environmental and socio-economic pressures. This chapter highlights the importance of snow monitoring in Central Asia and its vital role in improving hydrological forecasting as well as informed decision-making process in the region. We showcase the historical approaches used for snow monitoring as well as current methodologies in Central Asia. The core of the chapter is the description and exemplary application of the MODSNOW-operational cryosphere and water resources monitoring system that is widely used in Central Asia for improved hydrological forecasting and informed decision-making processes.

Hali tarjima qilinmagan