A brutal winter in Mongolia has turned into a real-life ‘Game of Thrones’ nightmare for herders, with over 667,800 livestock deaths reported this season. The extreme weather phenomenon, locally known as ‘dzud’ (think ice + snow apocalypse ❄️), is wreaking havoc across the country, threatening livelihoods and food security.
Mongolia’s National Emergency Management Agency revealed Monday that eastern provinces like Sukhbaatar and Dornogovi are among the hardest-hit regions, with thousands of animals—critical for survival in nomadic communities—perishing daily. 🐏💔
Dzud occurs when heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures prevent animals from grazing, creating a ‘survival of the fittest’ scenario. With climate change intensifying these events, experts warn this could reshape Mongolia’s pastoral traditions and ripple through global wool and cashmere markets. 🧣🌍
Local herders, who’ve endured dzuds for generations, say this winter feels like a ‘black mirror’ version of their worst fears. Meanwhile, authorities are scrambling to deliver hay and vaccines—but can they outrun Mother Nature? Stay tuned.
