Barrier Lake

 

Why in News?

A barrier lake in Tibet created flood concerns downstream after the natural barrier began overflowing/breaching. /p>

What is a Barrier Lake?

A natural lake formed when a river or stream is blocked by a natural barrier.

Causes

  • Landslide
  • Rock avalanche
  • Debris flow
  • Glacial collapse
  • Earthquake

Formation Process

Mass movement → River blockage → Natural dam → Water accumulation → Barrier lake

Major Risk

Natural barriers are generally unstable.

Failure can cause:

  • Sudden release of water
  • Flash floods
  • Sediment flows
  • Destruction downstream

Terms

A barrier lake can also be called:

  • Landslide-dammed lake
  • Quake lake, depending on its origin

Prelims: Barrier lake is not necessarily a glacial lake..