Zud - Wikipedia

A zud, dzud (Mongolian: зуд ), dzhut, zhut, djut, or jut (Kazakh: жұт , Kyrgyz: жут , Russian: джут ) is a periodic disaster in steppe, semi-desert and desert regions in Mongolia and Central Asia[ 1] (including Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Tajikistan, and Kyrgyzstan)[ 2] in which large numbers of livestock die, primarily due to starvation, being unable to graze due to particular severe climatic conditions. Various kinds of zud are recognized, depending on the particular type of climatic conditions. In winter it may be caused by an impenetrable ice crust, and in summer it may happen due to drought.[ 3] The literal translation of the Kazakh word 'жұт' is "devourer".[ 4]

One-third of Mongolia's population depends entirely on pastoral farming for its livelihood,[ 5] which contributes to 80% of its agricultural output and 11% of the country's GDP.[ 3] Harsh zuds can cause economic crises and food security issues in the country.[ 6] [ 2]

In Kazakhstan there is a proverb that "Djut has seven relatives" (жұт жеты агайынды). When interpreted, seven severe natural conditions are mentioned (not always the same), e.g., summer drought, grass drying out, early winter, deep snow, winter rains, ice crust, blizzard.[ 4]

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