Researchers at the University of Utah have discovered a significant hidden glacier beneath Mount Timpanogos, consisting of about 83% ice. This glacier, identified as the Timpanogos Rock Glacier, contains approximately 1.5 million cubic meters of ice—enough water to fill 600 Olympic swimming pools.
The discovery was made using advanced gravity measurement techniques to develop a three-dimensional model of the glacier. This innovative approach revealed that the glacier is primarily composed of ice, with only 17% rock. The findings highlight the potential importance of similar rock glaciers worldwide, which are estimated to collectively hold 48 gigatons of water, indicative of crucial hidden water resources in mountainous areas.
Key Facts
- Ice Volume: The Timpanogos Rock Glacier holds 1.5 million cubic meters of ice.
- Study Technique: Advanced gravity measurement led to accurate 3D mapping.
- Global Impact: Similar formations may hold 48 gigatons of water worldwide.
- Fieldwork: Researchers conducted measurements across 232 locations, over six trips, at 25-meter intervals.
- Formation: Rock glaciers preserve ice for thousands of years, commonly found in Utah’s Wasatch and Uinta ranges.
This discovery not only sheds light on the hidden ice reserves beneath mountain ranges but also raises questions about their role in future water resource management. As climate change continues to impact water availability, understanding these reservoirs becomes increasingly vital for addressing water demands in surrounding areas.
