Glacial lakes and GLOFs in a warming Himalaya-Karakoram region: current understanding, challenges, and the way forward

npj natural hazards. 2026 Open access

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Authors: Abid Farooq Rather, Rayees Ahmed, Taha Shamim, Abrar Farooq, Riyaz A. Mir, Omar Wani, Syed Hameem Gulzar, Pervez Ahmed
DOI: 10.1038/s44304-026-00168-w
Cited by: 5
References: 179

Abstract

The cryosphere of the Himalaya–Karakoram is rapidly retreating under climate change, leading to widespread formation and expansion of glacial lakes and increasing the risk of glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs). To date, more than 388 GLOF events have been documented in the region, primarily from moraine- and ice-dammed lakes, with the highest frequency reported in the Karakoram, followed by the Central and Eastern Himalaya. Ice avalanches and extreme precipitation are the most common triggers. Growing exposure of settlements and infrastructure amplifies impacts, highlighting the need to integrate physical science with social vulnerability, preparedness, and adaptation strategies.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Cryospheric studies and observations Climate change and permafrost Geology and Paleoclimatology Research

Publication details

Journal / source
npj natural hazards.
Publisher
Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Volume
3
Issue
1
Publication date
22 January 2026
Language
EN