Alex Scoffield – ENIGMA: Examining the physical conditions of a high-elevation Himalayan glacial lake 2023

Glaciers in the Himalaya contribute freshwater to millions of individuals. Future scenarios of these water resources are uncertain given a lack of empirical data to drive projections of glacier evolution. In particular, the influence of ice-contact glacial lakes, which can alter glacier flow and lead to greater melt rates, are poorly represented in numerical models. This expedition will instrument a high-elevation glacial lake in Nepal (Thulagi lake, 4,055 m asl) with temperature and suspended sediment sensors to collect the empirical data required to incorporate glacier-lake interaction into future projections of glacier change. The team of researchers will return six months later, providing the longest record of contemporary glacial lake physical conditions in the Himalaya.

(Photo: Thulagi Lake by Dan Jantzen and Scott Watson)

EXPEDITION DATES: 6 May 2023 to 27 May 2023

EXPEDITION LOCATION: Mansiri Himal, Nepal

You can find out more about Alex Scoffield and the ENIGMA expedition on Twitter.

SES members and all other participants in SES endorsed expeditions take part at their own risk, and will not hold SES, its trustees, employees, volunteers, partners or agents liable (whether in contract or in tort or in negligence or for breach of statutory duty or otherwise) for any loss, criminal or reputational damage, personal injury, delay or expense suffered or incurred on any such expedition. SES endorses the aims and objectives of these expeditions only.