Glacial distribution and mass balance in the Yarlung Zangbo River and its influence on lakes

Glaciers in the Yarlung Zangbo River witness severe glacial retreat nowadays, which gives important influence on lake processes in the region. We have studied glacial distribution, glacial mass balance and found large deficit in glacial mass and its impact in the region. Our study also integrated the variation in glacial-fed lakes of the Nam Co and Ranwu Lake, and presented an initial assessment of the impact of glacial mass balance on lakes. The study has shown a significant contribution of glacial melting to recent lake expansion and lake level rising.

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