An extreme weather phenomenon known as the dzud has devastated Mongolia’s livestock herds, resulting in the deaths of over 7.1 million animals this year. The dzud, a cycle of summer drought followed by a harsh winter, has left more than a tenth of the country’s livestock dead, severely impacting the livelihoods of nomadic herders who rely on their animals for survival.
The dzud occurs when scarce summer rainfall prevents livestock from gaining enough weight, leaving them vulnerable to the freezing temperatures and deep snows of winter. This year, the combination of extreme weather conditions has been particularly severe, leading to one of the worst livestock losses in recent history.
“We have never seen such a harsh winter,” said Baatar, a herder from the Khovd province. “Our animals are our life. Losing them means losing everything.”
The loss of livestock not only threatens individual families but also the traditional nomadic culture that has defined Mongolia for centuries. Herding is a way of life for nearly a third of the population, and the mass die-off could push many to abandon rural areas in search of opportunities in the cities.
The Mongolian government and international aid organizations are mobilizing efforts to assist affected communities. Emergency aid, including food and medical supplies, is being distributed, but the scale of the disaster poses significant challenges.
Experts warn that climate change may be exacerbating the frequency and intensity of dzuds. “We are seeing more extreme weather patterns,” said Dr. Enkhtuya, a climatologist at the National University of Mongolia. “It’s crucial that we develop sustainable strategies to support herders and protect our environment.”
The situation has drawn attention to the vulnerability of traditional livelihoods in the face of environmental changes. As Mongolia grapples with this crisis, the resilience of its people and the preservation of their cultural heritage hang in the balance.
Reference(s):
Heavy snows, drought kill over 7 million head of livestock in Mongolia
cgtn.com
