15:50 | Huaraz (Ancash region), Apr. 25.
New lagoon formations have been reported this month on the slopes of Vallunarraju —a snow-capped mountain located in the protected natural area of Huascaran National Park, in the city of Huaraz in Ancash region.
This occurs at the foot of the glacier, which heads northeast at an altitude of 5,042 m.a.s.l.
In this first reconnaissance phase, studies were carried out to determine their location and extent in the Cordillera Blanca (White Range).
According to the findings, these new formations drain the water into Llaca Ravine, crossing the access road to the lagoon of the same name.
During a visit to the place, the technical team found that up to three lagoons are being formed, two are adjacent to each other and could eventually be merged into one as the retreat of the glacier progresses.
In this regard, Inaigem's glacier research director, Jesus Gomez, stated that one of the consequences of the climate change process in snow-capped mountains is the formation of new lagoons, due to deglaciation.
"Peru has the largest number of tropical glaciers around the world —in terms of area and altitude— but at the same time they are more vulnerable to the impacts of climate change and climate variability," he warned.
(END) NDP/TMC/RMB
Published: 4/25/2021