Central Asia could be heading toward a severe water shortage as glaciers across the region continue to shrink at an alarming pace, raising concerns over long-term water security.

According to the State of the Global Climate report 2025 prepared by the World Meteorological Organization, glacier loss has reached some of the most destructive levels ever recorded. The findings warn that countries in Central Asia may eventually be left without vital glacial resources, The Caspian Post reports via Kyrgyz media.

Data from the World Meteorological Organization shows that last year ranked among the worst on record for glaciers, with most of the extreme negative trends observed after 2016. Overall glacier mass loss has entered the top five most severe declines since 1950.

Glaciers in the Pamir Mountains, Tian Shan, and Hindu Kush play a critical role in feeding the region’s largest rivers - the Amu Darya, Syr Darya, Zeravshan River, and Panj River. These waterways are essential for water supply, agriculture, and ecosystems across Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan.

Experts warn that while accelerated glacier melt may temporarily increase river flows, this effect is short-lived. Over time, the continued loss of ice is expected to lead to a steady decline in water levels-especially during drought periods.

The situation is further complicated by the construction of large hydropower facilities in upstream areas, which disrupt natural river flow patterns and place additional stress on fragile ecosystems.

The combined impact of climate change and river regulation could significantly degrade delta and floodplain regions, including the vulnerable Aral Sea region.

In response, the World Meteorological Organization is urging countries in the region to rethink and adapt their water management strategies before the crisis deepens further.