According to research by US institutions and nearly 40 scientists from various countries, in addition to the retreat of glaciers in Asia due to climate warming, the premature melting of glaciers may lead to more droughts and affect local crop yields.
This report, compiled by the U.S. Geological Survey in collaboration with 39 scientists worldwide, indicates that glaciers in Asia, including China, Russia, Pakistan, Afghanistan, India, Bhutan, and Kazakhstan, have shrunk. Specifically, glaciers in Bhutan have shrunk by 8.1% over the past 30 years, the Chhota Shigri Glacier in the Indian Himalayas has shrunk by 12% over the past 13 years, and the Gangoteri Glacier has shrunk by 12% over the past 16 years.
A report by the U.S. Geological Survey also points out that China has the second largest glacier area in Asia, with a total area of approximately 59,424.96 square kilometers. U.S. scientist Ferrinio said, "The glaciers in the Himalayas are of most concern to the outside world because they affect the lives of tens of millions of people and supply water to rivers in northern India."
Scientists believe that glacial melting has a significant impact on agricultural activities in Asia during the dry season. However, due to climate warming, glacial melting is occurring earlier, and when combined with spring or summer rainfall, it can easily cause flood disasters, especially in areas near glaciers where they are most vulnerable to flash floods.
The study also points out that glacial melting is related to the frequency of floods and droughts in Asia, and even to the rise in global water levels.
— Source: Taiwan Awakening Daily
