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The high mountains of Asia are a crucial source of freshwater to more than a billion people.

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Rapid changes in the region's climate are affecting glacier flows and snowmelt, impacting water availability.

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Typically, in colder periods, mountain glaciers will accumulate snow in higher elevations and grow.

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However, most Asian glaciers are melting and shrinking. That changes the water supplies for communities living downstream.

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Scientists estimate that by 2100, these glaciers could be 75% smaller in volume.

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This region also has seen an increase in the amount of soot and dust settling on snow, which traps heat and makes the snow melt faster.

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These changes to Asia's snow and ice can increase the risk of hazards such as landslides and flooding.

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NASA satellites allow scientists to observe this rapidly changing region

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so they can give local policymakers data and tools they can use to prepare for the future.