Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) risk mapping in Hunza River Basin (Pakistan) using geospatial techniques

Abstract

In Hindu Kush Himalayas (HKH) region, observations on glacial fluctuations indicate substantial retreat of glaciers, especially in Pakistan, Nepal, India and China. Recent global temperature rise has allegedly been responsible for the depletion of these glaciers and consequently creation of lakes on their terminus. Several of these lakes have burst and caused flooding or Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) in the recent past. GLOFs have a potential of releasing millions of cubic meters of water in a few hours causing catastrophic flooding downstream and damaging whatever comes into their way. Hazard mapping of elements at risk may enhance the capacity of the vulnerable communities to face these disasters in order to reduce their devastating impacts. Study of GLOFs hazard in Hunza River basin of Pakistan using geospatial techniques consisting of satellite remote sensing, Geographical Information System (GIS), hydraulic and hydrology tools is proposed in this paper. Geospatial techniques have a capacity to acquire information regarding the status of glaciers and glacier lakes at spatial and temporal resolutions beyond the capability of infrequent and point scale in-situ monitoring. Remotely sensed satellite data along with ground based data are used in this study for risk mapping of Passu Lake in Hunza River basin, Pakistan. The outcomes of the proposed study will be helpful for GLOFs risk management and an overall strategy to address possible risks from future GLOFs events in the country.