Studies show Himalayan glaciers are retreating but not at rapid pace: Govt
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The studies showed that glaciers with an area of more than 10 square km are unlikely to get affected appreciably in the coming years. However, smaller glaciers of less than 2 square km area are likely to show rapid changes
Why glaciers matters?
Snow and glaciers are perennial sources of water for rivers originating from the Himalayas.
Glaciers receive and accumulate snow in winter and release melt water in summer through surface flow, groundwater seepage.
The rate of melting/recession varies from glaciers to glaciers depending on its topography and climatic variability of the region.
Glaciers are also early indicators of climate changes that will have a somewhat more delayed impact on other parts of the Earth system.
Glaciers are sentinels of climate change.
They are the most visible evidence of global warming
Glaciers’ white surfaces reflect the sun’s rays, helping to keep our current climate mild. When glaciers melt, darker exposed surfaces absorb and release heat, raising temperatures.
A retreating glacier loses more water than it gains and so causes sea level to rise.