Glacier Contraction: The Origin of Glacial Mudflows

Rising air temperatures have created favorable conditions for dry farming at altitudes of 1900–2100 m (~6 km²) while increasing glacial mudflow risks. Field studies in 2011–2012 in the Tashkent region examined two glaciers: Tekeshsay-1 (minimal moraine cover) and Barkrak-Middle (extensive moraine cover). Two moraine-dammed lakes (1788 m² and 878 m²) formed near the retreating Barkrak-Middle glacier, posing mudflow hazards under high temperatures and heavy rain. The Tekeshsay-1 glacier is considered nonhazardous. Moraine material quantity is identified as the key factor in mudflow formation.