Glacial lake outburst floods can create dangerous torrents of water that travel along valleys quickly without notice. The recent flood from the South Lhonak Lake in Sikkim is among the most extreme events in the history of floods in the Himalayas.
What Happened in Sikkim?
The flood resulted from the failure of 14.7 million cubic meters of frozen debris in the lake, which caused a huge wave of 20 meters. According to the researchers, climate change has intensified the problem, and the lake may have more floods in future. The South Lhonak Lake has expanded 60 percent in thirty years.
Which Lakes Are Risky?
Sikkim has about 446 glaciers and over 200 glacial lakes. One study has identified 232 lakes and classified them as one very high risk, eight high risk and 22 medium. In extreme circumstances, Khanchung Lake can release up to 9504 cubic meters of water.
What Can Be Done? – glacial lake outburst floods
Researchers suggest improving the warning systems, taking measures to stop the flood and making laws for building hydropower plants near glacial lakes.
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