Sikkim Floods: What Causes Glacial Lake Bursts And Why Are They Dangerous?

A glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) is the sudden release of water that has collected in former glacier beds.

Rescuers are searching for over 100 people missing in a flash flood caused by a glacial lake bursting its banks in Sikkim, a risk scientists warn is increasing with climate change.

Here is an explanation of what glacial lake outburst floods are and the risks they pose, particularly in parts of Asia:

What is a glacial lake outburst flood?