Dehradun – Scientists have observed that snowfall patterns in Uttarakhand are continuing to shift, with snow now increasingly occurring during the pre-summer period instead of the traditional winter months. The discussion gained attention after an avalanche occurred near the origin point of Kanchannala, around two kilometres before Badrinath Dham. However, the avalanche did not reach the road and caused no damage.
According to scientists at the Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology, avalanches are a natural phenomenon that frequently occur in high Himalayan regions. Scientist Dr. Pankaj Chauhan said avalanches usually happen when multiple layers of snow accumulate on steep slopes after heavy snowfall. He explained that such incidents are common in upper Himalayan areas and often do not cause any harm.
However, scientists pointed out that the timing of snowfall has changed significantly over the past decade. Traditionally, snowfall used to occur mainly during December and January, but it is now increasingly being recorded during March and April, which falls in the pre-summer period.
Dr. Chauhan said that as temperatures begin to rise during this season, snow becomes less stable and melts faster. He added that the same trend was witnessed again this year, with snowfall occurring during the pre-summer months.
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Experts believe the changing snowfall pattern could have long-term impacts on Himalayan ecology, glaciers and weather systems in the region.
