What do the Himalayan glaciers tell us about climate change?
• The overall changes in the Himalayan glaciers, with loss of small glaciers and retreat of others, are consistent with an increase in average temperatures, and possibly change in precipitation patterns. Observations of a single glacier (whether small or large) cannot be used to extrapolate any general statements on climate change as there are too many site specific factors that can affect the behaviour of a specific glacier. It is important to compare and summarise observations from a number of glaciers in different areas, of different size, and at different altitudes to draw clear scientifically justified conclusions about the changes that are occurring. Direct measurements of Himalayan glaciers are few and far between, and generally restricted to the more accessible glaciers. Remote observations (from satellites) only show approximate indicators like glacier length and no comparative images are available for historical periods. A much increased level of scientific observation will b
• The overall changes in the Himalayan glaciers, with loss of small glaciers and retreat of others, are consistent with an increase in average temperatures, and possibly change in precipitation patterns. Observations of a single glacier (whether small or large) cannot be used to extrapolate any general statements on climate change as there are too many site specific factors that can affect the behaviour of a specific glacier. It is important to compare and summarise observations from a number of glaciers in different areas, of different size, and at different altitudes to draw clear scientifically justified conclusions about the changes that are occurring. Direct measurements of Himalayan glaciers are few and far between, and generally restricted to the more accessible glaciers. Remote observations (from satellites) only show approximate indicators like glacier length and no comparative images are available for historical periods. A much increased level of scientific observation will b
