An analysis of numerous satellite images taken between 1990 and 2018, has revealed that the land surface covered by glacial lakes has increased by more than 50% over this period. They now occupy an area of around 9000 km² (https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2020/aug/31/satellite-images-show-rapid-growth-glacial-lakes). These lakes now hold more than 150 km³ of freshwater. Rather obviously, the lakes are of considerable importance as water supplies for human populations. They can, however, also pose a serious threat, if they burst their banks, sending torrents of water down mountainsides. Currently, the fastest growth of glacial lakes is seen in Iceland, Russia and Scandinavia but they are also prominent in South America. Another 'bonus' of global warming?
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