Expert highlights snow’s critical role as future water source

By Ahmet Taş | Wise News Press

ADANA, TÜRKIYE — Amid growing global concerns over climate change and global warming, often dominated by fears of decreasing precipitation, Prof. Dr. İbrahim Ortaş from Çukurova University has drawn attention to the critical ecological importance of the recent heavy snowfalls. Ortaş argued that snow should be viewed not just as a nostalgic beauty or a logistical nuisance, but as an indispensable resource for the future of water and agricultural productivity.

Noting that the recent snowfalls experienced since mid-January in regions like Eastern Anatolia, Central Anatolia, and the Black Sea-Marmara axis have surprised many, Ortaş stated that these events are actually a return to the natural order required for sustainability.

"Nature surprised us when we thought winter was over"

Ortaş pointed out that while society had begun to accept the narrative that "natural balance is broken" and "winter is no longer experienced," nature provided a surprise reminiscent of childhood winters.

"While the heavy snow causes transportation disruptions and anxiety for some, it is a phenomenon that has been experienced repeatedly throughout history. The slightest change or disruption in nature's billion-year-old functioning can lead to unexpected developments," Ortaş said, suggesting that recent climate oscillations are part of a larger picture.

Ecological services: Water reserves and pest control

Addressing the complaints about snow disrupting daily life, Prof. Dr. Ortaş emphasized the unseen benefits. He highlighted that snow is beneficial beyond calculation, particularly for water retention in the soil and filling future water reserves.

Ortaş listed the ecological contributions of snow as follows:

• Water Security: It provides a massive ecosystem service by satisfying the water needs of humans and other living things in areas that suffer from water shortages during the summer.

• Pest Control: It ensures the controlled reproduction of certain creatures often viewed as "harmful," helping to maintain the natural balance.

  
  

• Plant Development: It acts as a blessing for the development of plants that require "ecological chilling" (vernalization) to thrive.

"We must look beyond disaster scenarios"

Ortaş criticized the often superficial and disaster-centered approaches found in climate crisis discussions, advocating for a deeper scientific analysis.

"Without underestimating climate change, it is more beneficial to adopt measures against potential risks by understanding the subject. If we try to see the 'big picture' regarding how snow ensures the cycle of plant life and future water resources, we will not only prepare ourselves for the future but also enjoy the beauty of the snow," he stated.

Reminding that nature is a whole and every season has its own specific function, Ortaş concluded that snowfall should be regarded as a phenomenon that fosters philosophical and environmental consciousness, rather than merely a meteorological event to be complained about.

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