Remote sensing and process attribution uncertainties in the Dharali event

npj natural hazards. 2026 Open access

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Authors: Anshuman Bhardwaj, Lydia Sam, Sheikh Nawaz Ali, Rayees Ahmed
DOI: 10.1038/s44304-026-00211-w
Cited by: 1
References: 14

Abstract

A recent study by Dandabathula et al. attributes the 5 August 2025 Dharali disaster to an ice-patch collapse based largely on satellite imagery. Here, we examine remote sensing and process-attribution uncertainties in that interpretation. The proposed mechanism by Dandabathula et al. lacks spectral validation, geomorphic consistency, volumetric support, and geophysical corroboration. Available independent observations instead indicate rainfall-triggered mobilisation of unconsolidated paraglacial sediments, underscoring the need for rigorous process attribution in Himalayan hazard assessment.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Cryospheric studies and observations Landslides and related hazards Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) Applications and Techniques

Publication details

Journal / source
npj natural hazards.
Publisher
Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Volume
3
Issue
1
Pages
45–45
Publication date
17 April 2026
Language
EN