Changes of six selected glaciers in the Tomor region, Tian Shan, Central Asia, over the past ∼50 years, using high-resolution remote sensing images and field surveying

As the major water resource of the Tarim River, glaciers in the Tomor region have suffered major losses of ice in the last several decades. Based on topographic maps, high-resolution remote sensing image, field survey data and previous studies, changes of the six selected glaciers in the Tomor region (Qingbingtan Glacier No.72, Qingbingtan Glacier No.74, Keqikekuzibayi Glacier, Tomor Glacier, Keqikar Glacier and Qiongtailan Glacier) over the past ∼50 years were analyzed in this study. Analysis shows that all of the six glaciers showed continuous shrinkage. The reduction rate of Glacier No.72 (terminus retreat of 41 m a−1 and area loss of 21.5% during 1964–2009) was higher than the others, with a dramatically increased rate. This dramatic ice thinning, related glacier front retreat and area loss of the six glaciers, suggests that glaciers in the Tomor region might currently be suffering negative mass balance in response to the ongoing temperature rise. Differences in changes of the six glaciers are influenced by debris cover and other topographical factors.