MAPPING THE ONGOING RAPID GROWTH OF PROGLACIAL LAKES IN THE CENTRAL ALPS FROM REMOTE SENSING DATA

Ongoing climate change is rapidly transforming high-altitude environments. The European Alps are particularly sensitive to such changes; therein the effects of rising temperatures are more evident. Over the past century, there has been a swift disintegration of glacial masses leading to the formation of numerous proglacial lakes. Mapping and investigating these lakes through a series of multitemporal remote images allows us to understand their surface area and evolution. This information is crucial for both the hydrological balance of high altitudes and the management of the hazards and risks related to these water bodies, which can sometimes cause damage to downstream infrastructure. In this study, we present the evolution of proglacial lakes in the Central European Alps over the last 70 years based on historical topographic maps, aerial photographs, and multitemporal satellite images. Our results reveal a rapid increase in the number and size of proglacial lakes, with an acceleration in the last 20 years. Alongside the increasing number of proglacial lakes significant changes in high-altitude ecosystems as well as in the hydrological and sediment balance of glacierized alpine areas are also documented. Our findings highlight the importance of integrating remote sensing technologies with field observations to improve the accuracy of lake monitoring and to better predict future changes. By understanding the dynamic nature of these proglacial lakes, we can better assess their impact on local biodiversity, water resources, and potential geohazards, thereby aiding in the development of effective conservation and risk management strategies.