A Winter That Might Vanish

More than 30 inches of powder in just ten days—the cold snap has turned roads into pristine white blankets, and the lake that had been thawed since 2019 is finally frozen.

Why Ice Matters

Scientists warn that these icy conditions are vital for Earth’s climate:

• Albedo effect: Ice and snow reflect a large portion of the sun’s energy back into space, keeping temperatures lower.
• Chain reaction: When ice melts,
• sea‑ice cools less water
• the jet stream shifts
• weather patterns change

This can lead to:

• More extreme winters
• Higher sea levels
• Disruptions in ocean currents that move heat around the globe

The Impact of a Single Degree

A single degree of warming can:

• Melt mountain snow, reducing the natural “cooling” effect
• Allow dark ground to absorb more heat, speeding up warming

Data Highlights

• Ski resorts expect their winter seasons to shrink by half or more in some places before 2100.
• Mountain glaciers that supply water to billions are retreating rapidly.

Consequences for Communities

When ice stores disappear:

• Water shortages for drinking, farming, and energy
• Fewer suitable locations for winter sports, including the Winter Olympics

In short, the snow we enjoy today is part of a delicate system that protects life on Earth. Without it, our planet could become hotter and more unpredictable.