Andean scientists develop mitigation plans for glacier and landslide risks

Scientists from Peru, Chile, and Argentina are collaborating to develop mitigation strategies against glacier collapses and massive floods in the Andean region. This research follows international concerns regarding glacier-related disasters, such as the recent catastrophe in Nepal.

In Peru, the situation is particularly critical as the country holds the world's largest concentration of tropical glaciers. The National Institute for Research on Glaciers and Mountain Ecosystems (INAIGEM) reports a 59% loss in glacial surface area. Researchers have identified 528 lagoons at risk of overflowing, with 58 classified as very high risk, specifically highlighting the Palcacocha area.

In Chile, studies are focused on the central region, where nearly half of the national population resides despite the area containing only 4% of the country's glaciers. Meanwhile, in Peru's Ancash region, Ingemmet has issued an alert regarding an active, large-scale landslide-flow in the Sisco sector. This movement, originating from the Yanamacha hill, has evolved into a debris flow that traveled over 7.5 kilometers to the Marañón River, posing a continuous risk to local populations due to potential reactivation from heavy rains or seismic activity.