Risk perception and vulnerability of communities in Nepal to transboundary glacial lake outburst floods from Tibet, China

• DOI: 10.1016/j.ijdrr.2024.104476
• Publication Date: 2024-04-16T07:01:56Z
• Authors: Nitesh Khadka; Xiaoqing Chen; Milan Shrestha; Weiming Liu
• Keywords: Glacial lake; Vulnerability; Disaster risk reduction; Risk Perception; Preparedness

Transboundary glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs) pose severe risks to downstream communities and infrastructure across international borders. However, previous GLOF research has largely overlooked the transboundary aspects of national sub-national level GLOFs, focusing instead mostly on inventorying lakes assessing their hazards. The lack cross-border coordination could have dire consequences for vulnerable potential disaster preparedness. Assessing risk perception vulnerability among populations exposed GLOFs is crucial effective reduction management. This study examined vulnerabilities Nepali in Bhotekoshi/Sunkoshi (Poiqu Tibet) Trishuli (Gyirong river basins, originating from Tibetan basins. Household-level data were collected 90 respondents villages along those two findings highlight high Bhotekoshi basin medium basin, with corresponding levels. Key factors influencing are explored, emphasizing need public awareness policy formulation at regional To reduce extending early warning systems, enhancing cooperation, supporting socioeconomically disadvantaged populations, ensuring resilient essential.