Mongolian Winters are Tough... 🇲🇳

01/12/18 04:33

January 2016: A Return to Mongolia in the Heart of Winter

In January 2016, I found myself back in Mongolia, a country that had already enchanted me during my first visit. This time, I arrived during one of the harshest winters imaginable, braving temperatures that plunged far below freezing. It was easily the coldest and toughest winter I had ever experienced. Despite the biting chill, I found myself repeatedly awed by the stark beauty of Mongolian winters, especially when the sunlight reflected off snow-covered steppes and frost-coated landscapes, turning the world into a shimmering spectacle.

Dzud: A Devastating Phenomenon

The purpose of my visit was to assess and support the humanitarian response to dzud, a unique and devastating climatic event in Mongolia. Dzud is a cyclical disaster characterised by a severe summer drought, which weakens livestock due to lack of adequate grazing, followed by a harsh winter, during which extreme cold and heavy snowfall make it impossible for animals to forage. This double blow leaves millions of livestock—vital for the survival of Mongolia’s nomadic communities—starving or freezing to death.

During this visit, I worked alongside colleagues from the Red Cross, and together we travelled far beyond Ulaanbaatar to reach the most affected regions. Our journey took us to Choibalsan and its surrounding areas in the eastern part of the country, where the impact of dzud was heartbreakingly evident. Entire herds of sheep and cattle lay frozen, their lifeless forms a stark reminder of how severe winters can decimate livelihoods and lives. For the nomadic communities, losing their livestock is catastrophic, as these animals are not just a source of food and income but also central to their cultural identity.

The Struggle of Nomadic Communities

The consequences of dzud stretch beyond the immediate loss of livestock. Many nomadic families, unable to sustain their traditional way of life, are forced to migrate to Ulaanbaatar or even beyond Mongolia in search of survival. In the city, they often face unemployment, poverty, and social challenges as they struggle to adapt to urban living—a stark contrast to the freedom and independence of the steppes. This migration threatens Mongolia’s centuries-old nomadic traditions and highlights the urgent need for sustainable support for these communities.

The Journey: Awe-Inspiring Landscapes

Despite the heavy nature of the mission, the journey to Choibalsan offered moments of profound beauty that will stay with me forever. Along the way, we passed through Gorkhi-Terelj National Park and the Chinggis Khaan Statue Complex, two breathtaking highlights of Mongolia.
• Gorkhi-Terelj National Park:
Nestled amidst dramatic rock formations, evergreen forests, and winding rivers, Gorkhi-Terelj is a haven of tranquillity and natural beauty. The snow-covered landscapes looked magical, and I could only imagine how different but equally stunning the park must be in summer. The nomadic families living within the park added a human touch to this pristine environment, their gers (traditional yurts) blending seamlessly with the landscape.
• Chinggis Khaan Statue Complex:
Just outside the park stands the towering Chinggis Khaan Statue, one of Mongolia’s most iconic landmarks. This massive steel structure, standing at 40 metres high, honours the legendary leader who united the Mongol tribes and founded one of the largest empires in history. Standing in its shadow, surrounded by the vastness of the steppe, I felt a deep connection to the indomitable spirit of Mongolia.

Falling in Love with Mongolia

This second visit deepened my admiration and affection for Mongolia and its people. Despite the challenges they face—extreme weather, economic hardships, and the strain of preserving their cultural heritage in a changing world—Mongolians exude warmth, resilience, and a strong sense of community.

Mongolia is a land of contrasts: harsh yet beautiful, ancient yet evolving. My experiences there, from witnessing the devastation of dzud to marvelling at the grandeur of its natural and cultural landmarks, left an indelible mark on me. It’s a place where life is lived with intensity, and where every moment feels deeply meaningful.

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Mongolian Winters are Tough... 🇲🇳