Date

12-19-2024

Document Type

Thesis

Abstract

Driven by climate change, elevation-dependent warming (EDW) has become a critical issue in the Cordillera Blanca of Peru. This study focuses on gathering evidence of EDW and determining the relationship between El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) events and micrometeorological forcing in two proglacial valleys. A climate monitoring network was maintained through a 20-year collaboration between Bridgewater State University (BSU), Universidad Nacional Santiago Antúnez de Mayolo (UNASAM), and the Autoridad Nacional de Agua (ANA). Fieldwork in June 2023 and June 2024 included repairing weather stations, installing new Lascar sensors, and downloading data loggers to sustain and improve the climate record. Data analysis revealed that El Niño amplifies EDW which raises the height of the freezing level, hence accelerating glacial melt. These results provide evidence that informs climate resilience and adaptation strategies for mountain communities, particularly concerning water resources. This research acts as a catalyst for expanding efforts to address climate-related disparities in vulnerable and understudied regions globally.

Department

Geography

Thesis Committee

Dr. Robert Hellström, Thesis Advisor
Dr. James Hayes-Bohanan, Committee Member
Dr. Boah Kim, Committee Member
Dr. Kianoosh Hassani, Committee Member

Download

Share

COinS