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Crisis Severity0 Very lowVery high 5
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Impact0 Very lowVery high 5
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Humanitarian Conditions0 Very lowVery high 5
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Complexity0 Very lowVery high 5
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Access ConstraintsNo constraintsExtreme constraints
Overview
The Dzud is a multilayer natural disaster comprising the summer drought resulting in the inadequate pasture and production of hay followed by severe winter conditions involving a heavy snow cover, strong winds, and lower-than-normal temperatures. The scenario prevents livestock from accessing pasture or receiving adequate hay and fodder, resulting in livestock mortality especially in steppes – dry and vast grasslands devoid of trees and with little diversity in vegetation. As at 1 February 2023, around 70% of Mongolia’s landmass were facing a high or extreme Dzud situation, affecting the livelihoods of around 191,000 herder households.
Herders comprise 80% of households in rural Mongolia and are at high risk of losing their livelihoods during the Dzud period. The usual peak period for livestock mortality is from February–April. As at 16 February, prolonged malnutrition and cold stress resulting from the current Dzud have killed 417,000 livestock.
An estimated 213,000 people in 18 provinces need humanitarian assistance. An estimated 53,000 vulnerable people, including children, need immediate and life-saving assistance.
The frequency and severity of the Dzud have been increasing in recent years, and climate change is considered a major driver of the phenomenon. ?
Latest Developments
A snowstorm swept across eastern Mongolia from 19–20 May 2023, mostly affecting Dornod, Khentii, and Sukhbaatar provinces. It damaged or destroyed buildings, vehicles, and power infrastructure. As at 25 May, more than 620,000 (over 521,000 in Sukhbaatar and 107,000 in Khentii) livestock had died. The affected population needs shelter, livelihoods, and healthcare support. ?