Mongolia’s traditional herders are bracing themselves for winter as frigid temperatures and heavy snow are predicted for the coming days. Already, 40 percent of Mongolia is covered with thick snow. The depth of snow has already reached 21-35 cm in 15 districts of six provinces.

Mongolia is one of the most sparsely populated countries in the world, and the extreme cold and snowstorms of a “dzud” are a major issue for herders travelling between far-flung towns. The government has stockpiled hay and fodder for distribution.