Glacier Retreat and its Impact on Downstream Hydrology in Nigeria
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47672/ajcs.2039Keywords:
Glacier Retreat, Downstream, HydrologyAbstract
Purpose: The aim of the study was to assess the glacier retreat and its impact on downstream hydrology in Nigeria.
Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries.
Findings: Glacier retreat, driven primarily by climate change, has profound implications for downstream hydrology. As glaciers shrink, they release stored water into downstream rivers and streams, initially leading to increased flow. However, this influx is unsustainable in the long term, as glaciers are essentially finite water reservoirs. Over time, the reduced glacier mass diminishes the available water supply, resulting in decreased streamflow and alterations to seasonal flow patterns. This has significant ramifications for downstream communities that rely on glacier-fed rivers for water resources, agriculture, hydropower generation, and ecosystems. Changes in flow regimes can disrupt water availability, affecting irrigation practices, energy production, and aquatic habitats. Furthermore, alterations in sediment transport and temperature regimes can impact water quality and ecosystem health.
Implications to Theory, Practice and Policy: Glaciological theory of glacier retreat, hydrological connectivity theory and integrated water resource management theory may be used to anchor future studies on assessing the glacier retreat and its impact on downstream hydrology in Nigeria. Implement adaptive water management strategies that consider the evolving hydrological regime due to glacier retreat. Foster international cooperation among riparian countries sharing glacier-fed river basins to address transboundary water management challenges effectively.
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