High-resolution CMIP6 analysis highlights emerging climate challenges in alpine and Tibetan Tundra zones

We employ a high-resolution Köppen climate classification dataset to examine<br>shifts in Tundra zones within the Alps and Asia. Our analysis shows substan-<br>tial reductions in Tundra areas by the mid-21st century under different Shared.<br>Socioeconomic pathways (SSP1-2.6, SSP3-7.0, SSP5-8.5). Tundra zones in the<br>Alps and the Tibetan Plateau are crucial for their unique climates and role as<br>water reservoirs. Characterized by short, mild summers and long, severe win-<br>ters, these zones are vital for the glaciers and perennial snow. The projected<br>climate instability may significantly reduce alpine snow cover by mid-century<br>with irreversible consequences. A 2C temperature increase from the 1981–<br>2010 baseline could eliminate the Tundra climate in the Alps and reduce it by<br>over 70% in Asia. This is particularly concerning given that rivers from the<br>Tibetan Plateau sustain nearly 40% of the global population.