A new international study has raised alarm over a significant decline in snow cover across Greece’s mountainous regions, highlighting the growing impact of climate change on vital water resources and ecosystems.

The research, led by the University of Cambridge with participation from the National Observatory of Athens and the Greek Mountain Observatory, found that snow cover in Greek mountains has decreased by more than half over the past four decades.

Sharp decline since the 1980s

According to the findings, snow cover has dropped by 58% since 1984, with the rate of decline accelerating in the early 21st century. Researchers also observed that the snow season now starts later and ends earlier than in previous decades.

Snow cover is a crucial source of water for local communities, agriculture, and natural ecosystems, making the trend particularly concerning.

Advanced technology reveals detailed changes

The international research team used satellite imagery, climate data, terrain mapping, and artificial intelligence to analyze long-term changes. Data from NASA and the European Space Agency were combined with a machine-learning tool developed to overcome challenges such as cloud cover and shadow interference.

The result was the creation of a high-resolution mapping system capable of producing daily snow cover maps at a 100-meter scale for ten of Greece’s highest mountains, covering the period from 1984 to 2025.

Faster loss than global averages

The study suggests that Greece is losing its winter snow cover faster than many other mountain regions worldwide. Scientists warn that this trend could have serious consequences, particularly in a country where water availability during the dry summer months depends heavily on snowmelt.

The findings underscore the broader pressure climate change is placing on Mediterranean environments, where relatively mild winters and small water basins make seasonal snow particularly important.

Implications for the future

Researchers caution that continued snow loss could affect agriculture, biodiversity, and water supply systems. The study serves as a stark indicator of how rising temperatures are reshaping natural systems, especially in regions already vulnerable to drought conditions.