Thame GLOF caused by chain reaction of geological and geomorphological factors, study finds

Key Points

• The 2024 GLOF in the Everest region was triggered by a rock avalanche causing displacement waves in a high-altitude glacial lake.
• The flood released over 450,000 cubic metres of water downstream, carrying debris and causing extensive erosion and landslides in Thame valley.
• The disaster destroyed multiple infrastructures including homes, a school, health post, bridge, and damaged a hydropower plant but caused no fatalities.
• The study highlights the increasing risks from glacial hazards in the warming Hindu Kush Himalaya and calls for enhanced monitoring and flood risk management.