How does snowfall differ between the Altai Mountains and the tundra of the Ob basin?

Snowfall accumulation varies significantly between the Altai Mountains and the tundra of the Ob basin. In the Altai Mountains, snow cover is much deeper, averaging 80 inches (200 cm) per year. In contrast, snow cover on the tundra is significantly shallower, ranging from 12 to 20 inches (30 to 50 cm).1

Additionally, the duration of snow cover differs across the Ob basin. While snow cover persists for 240 to 270 days in the northern regions, it lasts for 160 to 170 days in the south. These variations in snow depth and duration play a critical role in the hydrology of the Ob River, as the melting of seasonal snow is a primary source of the river's water discharge.1