34 barrier lakes have so far been discovered in Sichuan Province. They were formed by earthquake-induced landslides that blocked rivers. Currently eight of them hold more than three million cubic meters of water, adding potential danger for remaining villages in surrounding areas.

Remote sensing information and field observations by experts show one barrier lake fewer than three kilometers away from Beichuan County has doubled in size in only four days. Meanwhile, Xuanping and Zhangjiaba villages, located near the lake, are flooded.

To make matters worse, meteorological authorities are predicting that rains might sweep the quake-hit regions next week, raising the water level of barrier lakes. If they burst, they could trigger more disasters.

Information on all 34 barrier lakes has been sent to quake control and relief headquarters. Efforts are being made to evacuate people living downstream of the lakes. Experts are continuing to closely monitor conditions in these lakes.

(CCTV May 23, 2008)