RISK FROM GLACIAL LAKE FLOODS
Why in the news?
Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) risks in Uttarakhand prompt expert teams’ assessment amid climate change concerns.
source:IE
What is Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) ?
- GLOF is an outburst flood occurring when water dammed by a glacier or moraine is released.
Types of Glacial Lakes:
- Marginal Lake: Dammed by the front of a glacier.
- Sub-glacial Lake: Capped by the glacier.
Terminology:
- Marginal Lake Burst: Also known as marginal lake drainage.
- Sub-glacial Lake Burst: Known as Jaokulhlaup.
Main Features of GLOFs:
- Sudden and sometimes cyclic water releases.
- Rapid events lasting hours to days.
- Result in significantly increased downstream river discharges.
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source: https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-climate/risk-from-glacial-lake-floods-9249967/#:~:text=GLOFs%20can%20unleash%20large%20volumes,loss%20of%20life%20and%20livelihoods.