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Kathmandu: A new study published on Tuesday concluded that a “devastating, and complex, chain reaction” of geological and geomorphological factors amplified the destructive power of a glacial lake outburst flood last year in the Everest region.

The flood decimated the iconic high-altitude trekking village of Thame in Solukhumbu, Nepal on August 16, 2024.

‘Thame Valley Glacial Lake Outburst Flood — Causes, Impacts, and Future Risks’, authored by risk experts at the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD), concludes that a rock avalanche triggered a powerful displacement wave when it hit a glacial lake at 4,900 metres, causing the lake to breach and releasing 156,000 cubic metres of water.

This outflow fell 120 metres, amplifying its erosive power – and hi

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