Nepal earthquake may have weakened moraine dams, say scientists

By NewsGram Staff Writer

Moraine dammed lakes may also have weakened during the devastating earthquake that shook Nepal on April 25. The scientists today said that the weakening of lakes could result in floods in future.

"The threat of further landslides and glacier lake outbursts may increase as snow begins to melt and the monsoon kicks in," Kathmandu-based International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) said in a statement.

The institute is monitoring the recent topographical changes by analyzing the latest satellite images and communicating the findings to the Nepalese government and relief agencies. Some slopes may have been washed away by the earthquake, which could lead to other landslides. "There is an urgent need to assess the impact of landslides for immediate rescue efforts and monitor potential hazards in the future," ICIMOD said.

Immediately after the disaster, ICIMOD formed a team to analyze the updated satellite images that have been provided from space agencies around the globe. They also set up a webpage to provide latest images, data and information about the recent situation in Nepal.

The team also set up an office near the airport to provide live weather forecasts to the passengers and airport authorities. They provide Google Earth 3D images to help pilots to locate unfamiliar terrain and appropriate landing spots.