Meltwater

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Meltwater is the water released by the melting of snow or ice, including glacial ice. Meltwater can be produced during volcanic eruptions, in a similar way in which the more dangerous lahars form.

Contents 1 Water source 2 Global warming 3 See also 4 External links 4.1 In the media 5 References

[edit] Water source

Meltwater provides drinking water for a large proportion of the world's population, as well as providing water for irrigation and hydroelectric plants. It can also destabilize glacial lakes leading to sudden floods, and destabilize snowpack causing avalanches.^[1] Meltwater also acts as a lubricant in the basal sliding of glaciers.

[edit] Global warming

In a report published in June 2007, the United Nations Environment Programme estimated that global warming could lead to 40% of the world population being affected by the loss of glaciers, snow and the associated meltwater in Asia.^[1]

[edit] See also

• Groundwater
• Melt ponds
• Surface water
• Water resources

[edit] External links

• United Nations Environment Program: Global Outlook for Ice and Snow

[edit] In the media

• June 4, 2007, BBC: UN warning over global ice loss

[edit] References