Publication

The Hindukush-Himalayan region contains the world’s largest volume of glacier ice and perennial snow outside the polar regions. Its meltwater contributes to the major rivers that supply freshwater to almost a quarter of humanity residing in the downstream areas. Glaciers are sensitive indicators of any increase in air temperature. They have been studied extensively in many parts of the world as part of an international effort to improve understanding of the current pattern of global warming. 

This assessment of glacial lakes and glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) risk in Nepal was conducted with the aim of developing recommendations for adaptation to, and mitigation of, GLOF hazards (potentially dangerous glacial lakes) in Nepal. It also sought to contribute to developing an overall strategy to address risks from GLOFs in the future. The assessment is also intended to provide information about GLOF risk assessment methodology for use in GLOF risk management in Nepal.