Climate Hazards, Childhood Experiences, and Development Trajectories: The Long-Term Impact of GLOF Exposure

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Abstract
This study examines the long-term impact of childhood exposure to Glacier Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) on adult human capital in High Mountain Asia. Using historical GLOF data and geospatial mapping, we identify treatment and control groups based on geographic proximity. Exposed children attain 1.4–1.7 fewer years of schooling and have 1.9–2.2 kg/m2 lower adultBMI. Rural adolescents face greater educational losses, whereas urban residents experience more pronounced health impacts. Our findings highlight the long-term costs of climate-induced disasters and underscore the need for targeted risk reduction in vulnerable mountain communities.

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