Specialists from Tajikistan’s Agency for Hydrometeorology (Hydromet) have surveyed snow reserves, glaciers and glacial lakes across several mountainous areas of the country.

Around 95% of the seasonal snow cover has melted in the Qaratogh River basin and in the Shing and Haftkul areas of the Zarafshon basin, the agency reported.

Hydromet specialists carried out aerial observations on July 28, examining snow cover, glaciers, proglacial lakes and other elements of the cryosphere. The survey included visual observations and aerial photography.

The agency noted that intensive snowmelt affects river flow, water availability and the region’s overall hydrological conditions.

During the flight, specialists also assessed the state of glaciers and glacial lakes, paying particular attention to areas at risk of mudflows, landslides, glacial lake outburst floods and other hazardous natural events.

The data collected will be used to prepare hydrological forecasts, monitor water resources and assess the risk of natural disasters.

Glacier monitoring conducted several times a year

Hydromet carries out aerial glacier monitoring three to four times a year under Tajikistan’s State Program for the Study and Conservation of Glaciers for 2010–2030.

According to the agency, five helicopter surveys were conducted in 2024. Specialists also carried out 29 expeditions to study snow cover and 18 expeditions to glaciers, glacial lakes and potentially hazardous areas. A total of 52 expeditions were organized during the year.

In September 2025, specialists also conducted aerial monitoring of glaciers and high-altitude lakes in the Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Region, or GBAO.

During that survey, helicopter-mounted ground-penetrating radar was used for the first time alongside visual observations. The equipment enabled specialists to measure the thickness and density of ice in remote high-altitude areas.