Interpreting Surge-Type Glacier Dynamics in High Asia: Evidence from Observational and Remote Sensing Studies

Abstract

This study synthesises the development of surge-glacier studies in the region of High Asia since the early 20^th century. The paper uses remote sensing and GIS-based tools and techniques commonly employed in surge-type glacier studies for a systematic review. For that, this review utilized six major databases, such as ScienceDirect, Google Scholar, Scopus, Web of Science, SpringerLink, Taylor & Francis, MDPI, Copernicus, AGU, and Frontiers to identify relevant literature that was published from the early 20^th century to 2026. Based on the relevance to the objectives, 70 research articles were selected that employ contemporary remote sensing datasets and methodologies in surge-type glacier studies. The study also highlights 13 studies that utilized conventional methods in understanding the dynamism of surge-type glaciers. Therefore, a total of 83 surge-type glacier studies are selected for the systematic review. Despite promising results, there are limitations and challenges in identification, mapping, and measurements in surge-type glaciers, especially in region-wise analysis. The review highlights the need for further research that would emphasize emerging areas of surge-type glacier research in High Asia.