New glacial lakes form near source of Nepal's avalanche, raising monitoring concerns
Two new glacial lakes have formed in Nepal near the apparent source of the ice-rock avalanche that triggered recent flash floods. While the formation is confirmed, details regarding their potential water outflow volume are currently unavailable, prompting calls for continuous monitoring. Satellite imagery from August 27 identified a significant lake spanning approximately 20.25 hectares in the high-altitude Lhende Khola region, near the Nepal-Tibet border. Experts emphasize that further observations and ground-based investigations are crucial to assess the lakes' stability, depth, origin, and potential downstream risk.
Key Points
- Two new glacial lakes have formed in Nepal near the source of the recent ice-rock avalanche.
- Information on the potential water outflow from these new lakes is currently unavailable, necessitating continuous monitoring.
- Satellite imagery confirmed a lake of approximately 20.25 hectares in the Lhende Khola region.
- The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) highlights the need for ongoing observation of these lakes.
- Further investigations are required to determine the lakes' stability, depth, and downstream risk.
Exam Facts
- New glacial lakes: Two (19.80 hectares and 7.28 hectares).
- Location: Lhende Khola region, near Nepal-Tibet border.
- Source of information: Suhora Technologies (Noida-based firm), NDMA.
- Satellite imagery date: August 27.
- Early warning limitation: 30-45 minutes for massive water gushes.
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