Satellite imagery shows 73% reduction in Bhutan’s glacial lake after GLOF
Summary
- A Noida-based geospatial intelligence firm used satellite data to assess the size of the supraglacial lake adjoining Sintaphu Tsho in Bhutan.
- The lake, which was the source of a glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) in 2016, has shrunk by about 73% compared to its pre‑flood extent.
- Despite the reduction, the lake remains considerably larger than its 2016 size, indicating ongoing melt and water storage.
- The study highlights the utility of remote sensing for real‑time monitoring of high‑altitude glacial hazards.
- Findings are relevant for transboundary disaster preparedness between Bhutan and downstream Indian states.
Key Facts
- · Lake reduction: ~73% smaller than pre‑GLOF size.
- · Location: Supraglacial lake adjoining Sintaphu Tsho, Bhutan.
- · Event: Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) in 2016.
- · Agency: Noida‑based geospatial intelligence company.
- · Methodology: Satellite remote sensing and GIS analysis.
- · Current status: Lake still larger than 2016 footprint.
- · Implication: Ongoing glacial melt poses flood risk to downstream regions.
Why it matters
Monitoring glacial lakes using satellite technology aids early warning systems for GLOFs, crucial for disaster risk reduction in Himalayan states and informs climate‑change adaptation policies.
#Bhutan#Glacial Lake#GLOF#Satellite Monitoring#Climate Change#Disaster Management