An innovative IT module designed to monitor breakthrough floods on glacier lakes (GLOF) has been presented in Kyrgyzstan, as reported by the UNDP.
Kyrgyzstan faces the threat of over 2,000 glacier lakes, with nearly 20 percent posing a high risk due to the instability of natural dams and ice melting. This threat, directly linked to permafrost degradation, jeopardizes the population, infrastructure, and the environment. The latest significant flooding, caused by a high-mountain glacier lake outburst, occurred on July 8, 2022, in the Jeti-Oguz district of the Issyk-Kul region.
Amid growing environmental challenges, the unveiling of the recently developed IT module, part of the Unified Information System for monitoring the risk of flooding due to glacier lake outbursts, signifies an active step towards protecting communities and ecosystems from the destructive impact of natural disasters, as noted by the organization.
The innovative module combines artificial intelligence technology with machine learning processes to enhance forecast accuracy, providing timely and crucial information for effective risk reduction.
This marks the first instance in the country of utilizing such technology for monitoring and predicting natural disasters.
Deputy Minister of Emergency Situations Edelbek Kulmatov highlighted that the unified information system for monitoring the risk of glacier lake outbursts is an invaluable tool for safeguarding lives and the environment. "Its integration with satellite systems, meteorological services, and governmental institutions ensures timely and precise data collection and analysis," he stated.
The features of the IT module include specific algorithms based on machine learning for automatic lake area calculation and threat detection, multiparametric analysis for comprehensive risk assessment, as well as tailored forecasting capabilities for individual lakes. Moreover, the system facilitates real-time monitoring and alerts relevant authorities in case of potential threats.
The presentation showcased practical demonstrations of the IT module's functionalities, including a mobile application for real-time monitoring and data access. The module has been implemented as part of the project "Reducing risks and vulnerabilities from glacier lake outbursts (GLOF) and landslides in Kyrgyzstan by strengthening the national disaster monitoring system and community adaptive capacity." The project's implementation was made possible through the Climate Promise initiative, with financial support from the government of Japan through the UN Development Programme (UNDP).
