Prelims: Current events of national and international importance | Geography
Why in News?
After the August 26, 2026 avalanche and floods in Nepal’s Bhote Koshi–Trishuli system, officials and satellite data confirmed new glacial lakes near the source, raising concerns of another outburst.
Key Findings on New Glacier‑Lake Formation
- National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) – It has identified two new lakes, measuring 19.80 hectares and 7.28 hectares, both with moraines. The water volume remains undetermined.
- Satellite imagery from Suhora Technologies – It reveals an approximately 20.25-hectare lake at Lhende Khola, located on the Nepal–Tibet border.
- It is likely that the lake formed as a result of meltwater and debris accumulation following an avalanche.
Features of the newly formed glacial lakes
- Location – Situated in the high-altitude headwaters of Lhende Khola, which feeds into the Bhote Koshi–Trishuli river system, near Langtang Lirung at approximately 5,200 meters within the detachment zone.
- Size – The lakes measure 19.80 hectares and 7.28 hectares according to NDMA data.
- Suhora reports an approximate area of 20.25 hectares for the larger lake.
- Dam type – The lakes are associated with moraines and avalanche or debris deposits, indicating that they are likely moraine- or debris-dammed.
- Data gaps – Depth and volume measurements are currently unavailable.
- The origin and stability of the lakes require field verification and ongoing satellite monitoring.
Reference
The Hindu | Formation of New Glacier Lake
