Publisher © Czech Geological Survey, ISSN: 2336-5757 (online), 0514-8057 (print)
Distribution and degradation of permafrost in selected areas of Mongolia
Abstract
Recent extension of the permafrost area in the Mongolia reaches nearly one-half of this country. The lower limit of mountain permafrost is generally almost unchanged since the last glaciation. This observation rests in the direct contrast to the significant changes in mountain permafrost at the territory of Northern America and Europe. Consequently, there is an important finding that the permafrost in the Mongolia is less sensitive to local warming and/or aridisation, however exceptions exists. Within the Altai, Khangai and partly in the Khentia Mts. noticeable degradation of permafrost during the past 50 years was observed. It is highly probable that influence of desertification, global warming and more frequent occurrence of floods in connection with the melting of permafrost in Mongolia will be continually increased during the 21st century. The most important impact linked with melting of permafrost in future will be connected with degradation of water sources. This represents potentially risk for the whole Mongolia.
