Scientists warn of 3,100 “surging glaciers” that can trigger floods and avalanches
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Scientists have identified over 3,100 'surging glaciers' worldwide that can suddenly accelerate, causing destructive events like floods and avalanches. These glaciers are concentrated in high-risk regions such as the Arctic and the Karakoram Mountains.
A global study led by the University of Portsmouth has identified over 3,100 'surging glaciers' that can suddenly accelerate, unleashing powerful and destructive events. These glaciers are concentrated in specific regions, including the Arctic, High Mountain Asia, and the Andes. Surging glaciers can cause six major hazards, including glacier advance, river blockages, and meltwater outbursts, posing significant threats to nearby communities. The study found that these glaciers are not protected from climate change and can be made more sensitive by it. Researchers have identified 81 glaciers that present the greatest threat when they surge, many of which are located in the Karakoram Mountains. The glaciers can lose large amounts of ice during surges, contributing to ice loss in some regions.
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