GLOFs Research Mission in Tajikistan

September 18, 2024

From August 19 to 30, 2024, a field visit was conducted in Tajikistan to advance our understanding of glacier lake outburst floods (GLOFs). This mission, led by Dr. Evan Miles from the University of Zurich, involved collaboration with scientists from the Centre for Glacier Research of the National Academy of Sciences of Tajikistan. The visit aimed to assess the Baralmos Glacier and its associated lakes, introduce new monitoring equipment and enhance local scientific capacity.

The Baralmos Glacier: Importance and Challenges

The Baralmos Glacier in the Lakhsh district of eastern Tajikistan is a key site for studying GLOFs. The glacier’s lakes have a history of generating significant mudflows that impact downstream areas. These floods have caused severe disruptions to local infrastructure, including roads and settlements along the Surhob River. Understanding and monitoring this glacier is crucial for developing effective hazard mitigation strategies.

Work During the Field Visit

Assessment and Monitoring

During the mission, the team focused on evaluating previously established monitoring sites. They utilized two new pieces of equipment: a bathymetric surveying boat and ground-penetrating radar. The remotely operated boat with a sonar was used to measure glacier lakes’ depth. The team successfully surveyed 2 lakes 43 and 45 meters deep, providing essential data on water volume and lake dynamics. Ground-Penetrating Radar was employed to measure the thickness of the glacier ice. Accurate ice thickness data is vital for predicting the potential growth of glacier lakes and their associated flood risks.

The fieldwork also included a capacity-building component, where Dr. Miles trained local scientists from the Centre for Glacier Research of the National Academy of Sciences of Tajikistan on the operation and applications of these new tools. This training ensures that the local team will be able to conduct future assessments and contribute to ongoing monitoring efforts.

Scouting for Early Warning System (EWS) Implementation

In addition to the assessment activities, the team scouted potential locations for implementing an EWS. This system aims to detect and provide timely alerts for impending floods. The scouting process involved evaluating geographical and technical factors to identify optimal sensor placement and communication infrastructure.

Impact and Future Directions

The insights gained from this field visit will significantly contribute to the GLOFCA project. By enhancing our understanding of the Baralmos Glacier and its lakes, we can improve hazard prediction models and develop more effective mitigation strategies. Furthermore, the capacity-building efforts will strengthen local scientific capabilities, supporting long-term disaster risk reduction in the region.

The data collected and the knowledge shared during this mission will inform future research and aid in the development of resilient infrastructure and early warning systems, ultimately contributing to the safety and preparedness of communities in Tajikistan.