Geometric evolution of the Horcones Inferior Glacier (Mount Aconcagua, Central Andes) during the 2002–2006 surge

Abstract

Abstract The Central Andes of Chile and Argentina (31–35°S) contain a large number and variety of ice masses, but only two surging glaciers have been studied in this region. We analyzed the 2002–2006 surge of the Horcones Inferior Glacier, Mount Aconcagua, Argentina, based on medium spatial resolution (15–30 m) satellite images and digital elevation models. During the buildup phase the glacier was stagnant, with velocities lower than 0.1 m/d. In the active‐phase velocities reached 14 m/d and the glacier front advanced 3.1 km. At the peak of the active phase (2003–2004), the area‐averaged elevation change was −42 m in the reservoir zone (2.53 km 2 ) and +30 m in the receiving zone (3.31 km 2 ). The estimated ice flux through a cross section located at 4175 meter above sea level was 10 8 m 3 during a period of 391 days, a flux that suggests a mean glacier thickness at this location of ~90 m. The depletion phase showed a recovery of the reservoir zone elevation, the down wasting of the receiving zone (−17 m, 2007–2014), and a return to quiescent velocities. The short active phase, the abrupt change in the velocities, and the high level of the proglacial stream indicate a hydrological switch (Alaska type) trigger. The 2002–2006 and 1984–1990 surges of Horcones Inferior were synchronous with the surges of nearby Grande del Nevado Glacier. These events occurred after periods of positive mass balance, so we hypothesize a climate driver.