The glaciated mountains of the Sierra Nevada in the Venezuelan state of Mérida have always been a source of pride for the local people. They are deeply ingrained in the region’s identity and are connected to various legends of the area, particularly one involving a mythical white eagle.
However, all six glaciers that once crowned the mountains have now disappeared. The International Climate and Cryosphere Initiative (ICCI) recently declared that the Humboldt Glacier, also known as La Corona, is no longer large enough to be classified as a glacier. Venezuelan scientists had warned earlier about the drastic shrinking of this glacier in March.
Astrophysicist Alejandra Melfo from the University of Los Andes in Mérida expressed great sadness over the disappearance of the tropical glaciers and emphasized the importance of preserving the memory of the beautiful Sierra Nevada for future generations.
Venezuela previously had six glaciers in the Sierra Nevada mountain range, with Humboldt Glacier being the last one standing. However, recent studies indicate that this glacier’s disappearance makes Venezuela the first country in the Americas and in modern history to lose all its glaciers.
As global temperatures rise due to climate change, glaciers continue to melt, contributing to rising sea levels around the world. Humboldt Glacier, situated at 4,800 meters above sea level, is a significant example of this phenomenon and stands as a symbol of the changing climate.
The loss of glaciers is accelerating due to rising temperatures caused by climate change. Research shows that if temperatures continue to rise, 83% of the world’s glaciers could vanish by 2100. Venezuela has already experienced a dramatic reduction in glacier area over the past few decades.
The disappearing glaciers present an opportunity for further research and observation of the changing ecosystems in the region. Scientists stress the importance of acknowledging and addressing climate change to prevent further environmental damage.
This article was originally published by Noticias Telemundo.
Source: www.nbcnews.com
