South Inylchek Glacier
Valley Glacier·Kyrgyzstan·Asia·Alpine
The South Inylchek Glacier is a massive glacier located in the Central Tian Shan Mountains of Kyrgyzstan. It is recognized as the sixth-longest non-polar glacier globally and is the largest and fastest-moving glacier in Kyrgyzstan, playing a significant role in regional hydrology and glacial lake formation.
Key Facts
- ›Ranks as the sixth longest non-polar glacier worldwide.
- ›Is the largest and fastest moving glacier in Kyrgyzstan.
- ›Has an overall length of 60.5 kilometers.
- ›Covers an area of 17.2 square kilometers.
- ›Features ice thickness of approximately 150–200 meters in its lower sections.
- ›Feeds the Engilchek River, a tributary of the Saryjaz River.
Known For
- Being the sixth longest non-polar glacier in the world
- Being the largest and fastest moving glacier in Kyrgyzstan
- Its contribution to Lake Merzbacher and glacial lake outburst floods
Lake Merzbacher, Engilchek River, Khan Tengri Massif, Pik Pobedy Massif
About South Inylchek Glacier
The South Inylchek Glacier is a significant glacial feature located in the Central Tian Shan Mountains of northeastern Kyrgyzstan. It is distinguished as the sixth-longest non-polar glacier globally and holds the title of the largest and fastest-moving glacier within Kyrgyzstan. Its immense scale and dynamic nature make it a crucial component of the regional landscape and hydrological system.
Geography and Hydrology
This vast glacier is part of a larger system, with the main glacier having two primary arms: the North and South Engilchek Glaciers. The South Engilchek Glacier is the longer of the two, contributing to an impressive overall length of 60.5 kilometers. Its surface area spans 17.2 square kilometers, with ice thickness in its lower sections estimated to be between 150 and 200 meters. The glacier originates from the high-altitude massif shared by China, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan, encompassing peaks like Khan Tengri and Pik Pobedy, with its upper reaches extending across all three borders.
Environmental Impact
The meltwater from the South Inylchek Glacier is a primary source for the Engilchek River, which subsequently flows into the Saryjaz River (known as Aksu in China) and eventually into the Tarim Basin. A notable phenomenon associated with this glacier is its contribution to the formation of the seasonal glacial Lake Merzbacher. The fluctuating levels and eventual drainage of this lake can trigger frequent glacial lake outburst floods within the Engilchek River valley, posing a significant geohazard.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the South Inylchek Glacier located?
The South Inylchek Glacier is situated in the Central Tian Shan Mountains of the Issyk-Kul Region in northeastern Kyrgyzstan. Its snout is approximately 50 km east of the village of Engilchek.
How long is the South Inylchek Glacier?
The South Inylchek Glacier, including its main arm, has an overall length of 60.5 kilometers (38 miles).
What is the size of the South Inylchek Glacier?
The glacier covers a surface area of 17.2 square kilometers (7 square miles). In its bottom parts, the ice thickness is estimated to be roughly 150–200 meters.
What river system does the South Inylchek Glacier feed?
Meltwater from the South Inylchek Glacier feeds the Engilchek River. This river is a tributary of the Saryjaz River, which is known as the Aksu River in China and flows into the Tarim Basin.
Does the South Inylchek Glacier contribute to glacial lake formation?
Yes, water from the South Inylchek Glacier feeds the seasonal glacial Lake Merzbacher. This lake is known to cause frequent glacial lake outburst floods in the Engilchek River valley.
Related Glaciers
Baltoro Glacier
The Baltoro Glacier is a major glacier located in the Karakoram range of Pakistan-administered Kashmir. It is renowned for being surrounded by some of the world's highest peaks, including K2, and serves as a critical source for the Braldo River, which eventually flows into the Indus. Scientific observations suggest the glacier is not retreating but undergoes surges, making it a dynamic and significant feature of the region.
Batura Glacier
Batura Glacier is one of the largest and longest glaciers found outside of the polar regions, stretching 57 km in length. Located in the upper Hunza region of Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan, it flows west to east and is notable for its debris-covered lower portions and proximity to the Karakoram Highway, making it a subject of scientific study.
Biafo Glacier
The Biafo Glacier is a significant glacier located in the Karakoram mountain range of Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. It is renowned for its immense size, ranking as one of the largest in the Karakoram and as the world's third-longest glacier outside of the polar regions. The Biafo Glacier is a key component of a vast glacial system, forming the world's longest non-polar glacial system when combined with the Hispar Glacier, and is a popular destination for trekking.