Short Wave The Race To Protect Millions Of People From Melting Glaciers
Apr 19, 2023
Rebecca Hersher, an NPR Climate Desk reporter, explores the urgent threats posed by melting glaciers and the unstable lakes they leave behind. She discusses the risks of flash floods that endanger millions in downstream communities, particularly in Nepal. Listeners hear firsthand accounts of individuals living in the shadow of these threats, and how scientists are collaborating with locals to develop protective measures and mitigate the impact of climate change. Hersher emphasizes the interconnectedness of these environmental issues and their far-reaching consequences.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Dangerous Glacial Lake in Nepal
- In Nepal, a glacial lake formed behind a natural dam of boulders, threatening villages downstream.
- This lake grew from ponds to 300 football fields in size since the 1960s, highlighting rapid glacial melt.
Pakistan's Glacial Lake Outburst Floods
- Pakistan's 2022 floods, partly caused by glacial lake outbursts, led to widespread devastation and displacement.
- A BBC audio clip captures a bridge collapsing due to these floods, emphasizing the destructive power of GLOFs.
Nepal's Failed Alarm System
- In the 1990s, Nepal briefly had an alarm system for glacial lake floods, prompted by community action after a flood.
- However, due to remoteness and maintenance challenges, the alarms broke and were never fixed.