Emerging Cryospheric Hazards in the Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH) under a Changing Climate
The Hindu Kush Himalaya region is experiencing rapid climate change, leading to increased cryospheric hazards such as glacial lake outburst floods and landslides. The region, which spans eight countries in South and Central Asia, is critically important for water security, ecosystem services, and disaster risk management, and requires coordinated cross-border efforts to address climate change impacts.
The Hindu Kush Himalaya region is highly sensitive to climate change. It contains large glaciers, seasonal snow cover, and permafrost, which supply water to nearly two billion people. However, rapid warming and changing weather patterns are affecting the region's cryosphere, leading to hazards like glacial lake outburst floods and landslides. The region stretches across eight countries in South and Central Asia. Recent efforts have been made to monitor and manage cryospheric hazards through national programs and regional cooperation. Despite these advances, significant knowledge gaps remain, and a better understanding of the interactions between cryosphere, climate, and human activities is essential for developing effective early warning systems and disaster risk reduction strategies.
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