Meltwater Pools

Meltwater Pools

This aerial photo series provides a unique perspective of the vivid blue meltwater lakes on Alaska's Columbia Glacier, captured from a small aircraft. The deep blue color of the meltwater results from the absorption of red and yellow wavelengths of light, creating the intense hue characteristic of glacial lakes.

Columbia Glacier, one of the fastest-moving glaciers in the world, is experiencing significant retreat, which directly contributes to the formation of these striking meltwater lakes.