Glacier retreat, glacier melt

Glacier retreat or glacier melt is the term used to describe the rapid melting of glaciers as a result of progressive climate warming. This affects both the length and the thickness (= mass) of the glaciers.

The melting of glaciers not only changes the appearance of the landscape. The melting of glaciers leads to the destabilization of mountain flanks. This can lead to rock and mountain falls and - coupled with heavy precipitation - to debris flows.

As a result of melting, glaciers will lose their function as water reservoirs. The seasonal runoff of water will change as a result.

The use of hydropower is currently benefiting from the melting of the glaciers. Over time, however, this advantage becomes a disadvantage. At a certain point, the glacier will supply less and less meltwater. The generation of electricity from hydropower will then inevitably decrease.