Summary:
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Surprising Growth
Mount Everest, also known as Chomolungma, has grown about 15 to 50 meters (50 to 164 feet) taller over the past 89,000 years, according to a recent modeling study. -
Erosion and Uplift
The increase in height is attributed to a nearby river that is eroding land, causing the ground beneath Everest to rebound and lift, as explained by geologist Matthew Fox from University College London. -
Long-Term Implications
This uplift is expected to continue for millions of years, potentially affecting climbers who will need to ascend an additional 20 meters to reach the summit. -
Unique Geological Event
The study suggests that the height anomaly of Everest compared to its neighbors is linked to a rare “river capture event” from 89,000 years ago, where one river rerouted its flow and drained water from another. -
Significance of the Arun River
The Arun River network, located about 75 kilometers east of Everest, played a crucial role in this geological change by capturing water from a river flowing north of Everest, possibly initiated by a significant flood.
Read more at: MSN