British scientists from the University of Lids (UOL), along with colleagues from Aberbrushes University, will rise to Everest to study the melting of the Khumbbu glacier. Its disappearance may have catastrophic consequences for the population of some countries depending on the water resources of the Himalayas. This has been reported on UOL's official website.
Gimalaye glaciers are still an important source of water for millions of people in Nepal, India, Pakistan and other countries in the region. Melting water is used for irrigation, hygiene and hydroelectricity. However, changes in the speed of the melted glacier can be dangerous to this resource, especially at the foot of the hill, where the population is especially vulnerable to water shortage.
The expedition will focus on the West Circus, in which, according to experts, intensive solar radiation causes snow melting even at negative air temperatures.
The researchers will work at an altitude of more than 6000 meters above sea level, promoting a glacier to measure ice temperature.
They have to cross the core of Khumbbu – one of the most dangerous parts of the route to Everest. The device will be transferred to a helicopter and the group will break the camp on the ice, where the night temperature is lowered below -10 ° C.
To drill wells and collect data, scientists will use solar panels, batteries and propane, because the traditional energy sources at this height are not reliable. Data will be transmitted in real time through satellites, which will reduce the need for additional trips.
Previous studies have shown that the ice temperature in the lower parts of the Khumbu glacier is higher than expected. The new data will help improve climate models used to predict changes in glaciers and supply water in the area.