Study Identifies 219 Hanging Glaciers in Uttarakhand Amid Warming Himalayas
Study Identifies 219 Hanging Glaciers in Uttarakhand Amid Warming Himalayas
IN · Published Sep 2, 2026
A 2026 study has mapped 219 hanging glaciers across Uttarakhand, underscoring the growing risks associated with climate change in the Himalayan region.
These glaciers, which are precariously attached to steep slopes, are particularly vulnerable to melting and collapse due to rising temperatures.

Impact & Risks

The melting and collapse of hanging glaciers in Uttarakhand pose significant risks to local communities and ecosystems. Avalanches and sudden floods could lead to loss of life, damage to infrastructure, and disruption of livelihoods. Additionally, the long-term reduction in glacier mass may exacerbate water stress in the region, affecting agriculture and drinking water supplies. These risks extend beyond Uttarakhand, potentially impacting downstream areas reliant on Himalayan water sources.

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