Number of unfrozen lakes in Pakistan grows by 65 in less than 2 months: Suparco
ISLAMABAD: The number of unfrozen lakes in Pakistan grew from 40 to 105 in less than two months, according to satellite imagery assessed by the national space agency of Pakistan between July and August. Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (Suparco) said in a press release that the latest assessment was based on temporal satellite imagery, with the the latest image acquired on Aug 5.…
Pakistan's number of unfrozen lakes has surged by 65 in under two months, according to Suparco, the national space agency. The count rose from 40 to 105 between July and August, assessed using satellite imagery. Suparco noted that rising summer temperatures were responsible for the increase. However, cloud cover after the last report in July limited accurate measurements.
Glacial lakes pose a glacial lake outburst flood (Glof) risk when their water extent exceeds historical maximums, potentially causing instability or failure of moraine dams. Suparco advised authorities to remain vigilant and prepared, particularly in downstream valleys of these lakes, and to conduct regular monitoring throughout the melt season.
Dr. Karamat Ali, a glaciologist, stressed the need for more than just satellite monitoring, highlighting the importance of field studies to understand the full risks and vulnerabilities associated with melting glaciers.
Written by urgent.news from Dawn - Pakistan's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
