Factors controlling the accelerated expansion of Imja Lake, Mount Everest region, Nepal

• DOI: 10.3189/2016aog71a063
• Publication Date: 2015-11-11T13:51:25Z
• Authors: Sudeep Thakuri; Franco Salerno; Tobias Bolch; Nicolas Guyennon; Gianni Tartari
• Keywords: Glacier mass balance; Elevation (ballistics); Lapse rate; Ablation zone; Accumulation zone; Glacier terminus

Abstract This study explores the link between area increase of Imja Tsho (Lake) and changes Glacier (area ~25km 2 ) under influence climate change using multitemporal satellite imagery local data. Between 1962 2013, Lake expanded from 0.03±0.01 to 1.35±0.05 km at a rate 0.026±0.001 -1 . The mean glacier-wide flow velocity was 37±30ma during 1992–93 23±15ma 2013–14, indicating decreasing velocity. A elevation –1.29±0.71ma observed over lower part glacier in period 2001–14, with –1.06±0.63ma 2001–08 –1.56±0.80ma 2008–14. We conclude that decrease is mainly associated reduced accumulation due precipitation last few decades. Furthermore, ablation has increased increasing maximum temperatures post-monsoon months. Decreased velocities mass losses induce formation subsequent expansion glacial lakes favourable topographic conditions.