Glacial Meltdown: Unveiling the Threat of Outburst Floods

As global temperatures rise, glaciers worldwide are melting, leading to the formation of glacial lakes that pose significant risks through outburst floods. These floods occur when ice dams fail, causing massive destruction. The UN emphasizes awareness as millions face potential danger from these phenomena due to climate change.

In a world grappling with rising global temperatures, the melting of glaciers is becoming a grave concern. Recently, the Alps and Pyrenees witnessed a 40% reduction in glacier volume from 2000 to 2023, reflecting the larger global trend and threatening freshwater supplies.

Glacial lakes are expanding as ice melts, posing significant risks when natural ice or rock dams break. Notably, an October 2023 outburst flood in the Himalayas caused widespread damage, highlighting the urgent need for awareness and preventive measures.

The United Nations has declared 2025 the International Year of Glaciers' Preservation. Governments are implementing early warning systems and zoning to combat the growing threats from glacial lake outburst floods exacerbated by thawing permafrost.

(With inputs from agencies.)