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[INTERNATIONAL] · Peru · 8 sources

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Peru: 58 glacial lagoons identified at very high risk of overflowing

The National Institute for Research on Glaciers and Mountain Ecosystems (Inaigem) has warned that 58 glacial lagoons in Peru are at very high risk of overflowing. This warning comes amid a 60% retreat in glacial surface area caused by global temperature variations.

Significant risks have been identified in the Áncash and Cusco regions. Specifically, the Huascarán mountain shows instability in its north and south peaks, which could trigger massive landslides and avalanches similar to the 1970 disaster that buried the city of Yungay. Laguna Parón in the Cordillera Blanca is also cited as a major threat.

Inaigem is currently monitoring several critical sites using sensors, including Upiscocha in Cusco, which is considered the highest risk, and Palcacocha in Áncash due to its proximity to populated areas. The institute is working with local governments to implement early warning systems and risk mitigation measures to protect the hundreds to thousands of people potentially affected.

Entities

Ancash · Cusco · Huascarán · Inaigem · Laguna Parón · Paola Moschella

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