The Climate Question How do we fight the risks of melting glaciers?
Aug 11, 2025
Caroline Davies, BBC News Pakistan correspondent, shares her insights after reporting on the melting glaciers in the Himalayas. She highlights the devastating impact of climate change on local communities, especially the threat of glacial lake outburst floods. Davies narrates personal stories of villagers coping with these challenges, illustrating their connection to the glaciers and their resilience in the face of adversity. The podcast also discusses community efforts to adapt and prepare for ongoing environmental changes.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
The Himalayas Are The 'Third Pole'
- The 'third pole' region contains more ice than anywhere on Earth except the north and south poles.
- Caroline Davies reports about roughly 7,000 glaciers that are rapidly changing.
GLOFs Have Suddenly Increased
- UNDP found GLOFs rose sharply, with 64 events in Gilgit-Baltistan during one season.
- Caroline Davies notes repeated outbursts from single glaciers magnify local damage.
Unpredictable Glaciers Threaten Rivers
- Melting glaciers make river flows uncertain across Pakistan, India and China.
- That unpredictability risks water supply for agriculture and millions downstream.