Tracking data high in the mountains is much more difficult, but a new study published in Nature Reviews Earth & Environment shows just how important this research is. A team of researchers led by Dr. Nick Pepin at the University of Portsmouth “analysed data from multiple sources, including global gridded datasets, as well as detailed case studies from specific mountain ranges, including the Rockies, Alps, Andes and Tibetan Plateau,” according to an article published by the university on Phys.org.
What happened?
The study found that between 1980 and 2020, the mountains warmed at an average rate of 0.21 degrees Celsius per century faster than nearby lowlands. Unpredictable rainfall also hits the mountains as snow turns to rain.
Dr Pepin explained: “Mountains share many characteristics with the Arctic and are undergoing similar rapid changes.”
He added that both areas are experiencing significant ice loss and are changing ecosystems.
“What’s less known is that as you get higher into the mountains, the rate of climate change can become more dramatic,” he said.
Why is snow and ice loss in mountainous areas a concern?
While the loss of snow and ice is harmful to mountain communities, they are not the only ones affected. More than 1 billion people around the world, including in China and India, rely on glaciers for water.
Dr. Pepin also noted that “when the weather warms and transitions from snow to rain, devastating flooding is more likely. Hazardous events also become more extreme.”
While extreme weather events, such as unpredictable rainfall, will always happen, rising temperatures are exacerbating these storms.
Additionally, as temperatures rise, the animals that live there are forced to climb farther into the mountains in search of cooler spots. However, they will be pushed to the edge and may eventually be lost as their ecosystems will be changed forever.
Unfortunately, collecting data in harsh conditions is much more difficult, leading to data gaps. In turn, scientists may be underestimating how quickly temperatures are rising.
What is being done about the lack of data?
Dr Emily Porter from the University of Sheffield said that while “computer models are improving”, they were not enough. She believes action on climate commitments is needed. Reducing society’s reliance on planet-warming energy sources such as coal and natural gas is one example.
You can also do your part by donating to climate organizations doing this important work.
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