Glacial Lake Outburst Floods and Their Risks in the HKH RegionCEFR B1
2 Oct 2025
Adapted from Qian Sun, Global Voices • CC BY 3.0
Photo by Tanveer Mazhar, Unsplash
AI-assisted adaptation of the original article, simplified for language learners.
The Hindu Kush-Himalaya (HKH) region faces a rising threat from glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs) due to the rapid melting of glaciers. These melting glaciers create large lakes that are unstable. Studies indicate that around 9.3 million people are at risk from these floods, especially in high-population areas like India, Pakistan, and China. The dangers of GLOFs are increasing as global temperatures rise.
In recent years, there have been numerous incidents of GLOFs, which have caused significant destruction. For instance, a GLOF event in 2023 sent massive waves downriver, displacing thousands of people and damaging crucial infrastructure. Experts warn that these floods can also trigger landslides, further expanding the damage.
Addressing GLOF risks requires international cooperation on research and prevention. Understanding where these floods may occur is essential for saving lives and protecting property. Comprehensive data collection and risk assessments are critical to managing these threats, highlighting the need for coordinated efforts across nations.
Difficult words
- glacier — A large, slow-moving mass of ice.glaciers, melting
- flood — An overflow of water covering land.floods, GLOFs
- risk — The possibility of harm or loss.risks
- infrastructure — Basic systems and structures of a place.
- cooperation — Working together for a common goal.
- destruction — The act of causing damage or ruin.
- essential — Absolutely necessary; very important.
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- How can international cooperation help prevent GLOFs?
- What are some ways to protect communities from natural disasters?
- Why is understanding risks important for safety?
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