Dramatic Snow Decline Impacts Arachova’s Climate and Economy

As a child, Giannis Stathas experienced heavy snowfall that would trap residents in their homes for days in Arachova, a village known for its ski resort. Now, as the mayor, he witnesses a dramatic reduction in snowfall.

We couldn’t go to school because of the snow and might have been homebound for two days, Stathas recalls. He notes how snowfall that once occurred at 300 meters is now only found at 2,400 meters on Mount Parnassos.

Research supports Stathas’ observations. Konstantis Alexopoulos, a snow hydrologist, states that snow cover on ten Greek mountains has drastically fallen since the mid-1980s. Using satellite imagery and machine learning, Alexopoulos’ team reconstructed snow data, finding a significant decline. Snow acts as a vital water reservoir, gradually releasing water during dry seasons, which aligns with Mediterranean climate needs.

Climate change, driven by greenhouse gas emissions, intensifies the snow loss in Greece. Alexopoulos points out that the rate of decline is swifter than witnessed in other mountainous areas such as the Andes or Himalayas.

Studying Greek mountains is complex due to remote access and the challenges in establishing weather stations. This delay in understanding snow’s importance is now noticeable as droughts become frequent. Mount Parnassos, although not analyzed in the study, reflects similar Greek conditions.

In Arachova, the water supply depends entirely on snowmelt. Local restaurant owner Aktida Koritou notes that residents are now cautious with water usage, especially during summer’s peak shortages. Mayor Stathas mentions drying springs and empty reservoirs as major concerns from August to October.

Efforts to adapt involve exploring small dam constructions to conserve water and implementing snow retention at the ski center. The lack of snow results in drier vegetation, raising fire risks—a concern that once seemed improbable.

The local economy, reliant on skiing, faces challenges. Koritou explains that the ski season now starts a month later, deterring visitors who seek snowy Christmas holidays elsewhere. To compensate, Arachova aims to attract summer tourism, emphasizing the area’s mild climate and proximity to swimming locations.

Residents nostalgically recall harsher winters when roads required shoveling and snow lingered year-round. Koritou expresses disappointment at the substantial changes, stating, For those of us who know winter well, it’s disappointing not to see snow. You want it in the winter. The change is enormous.