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Asia-Pacific Network for Global Change Research

Asia-Pacific Network for Global Change Research

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Project final Report: CRRP2021-03MY-Borodavko

The modern process of glacial retreat in the Altai is resulting in the formation of glacial lakes. The number of these lakes is increasing as glaciers continue to retreat. Glacial lake outbursts can result in catastrophic floods and debris flows that have the potential to cause significant damage to downstream infrastructure, agriculture, and even human lives. It is crucial to comprehend the causes and impacts of these outbursts to prepare for future occurrences. The project team created an algorithm to evaluate the potential dangers of glacial lakes in mountainous areas. This involved recognizing potential hydrogenic threats, gauging the social, economic, and environmental implications if the lakes overflowed, and developing a collection of precautionary measures to lessen potential disasters. Successful testing of the algorithm has facilitated the identification of potentially hazardous glacial lakes within the Altai Republic. Additionally, the algorithm has been used to model potential floods and evaluate economic losses. To prevent a natural disaster, timely joint efforts between the Kosh-Agach Municipality and the Government of the Altai Republic were initiated.