The Lizoite rock glacier, Dry Andes of Northwestern Argentina: A deactivation case in progress?

Abstract Rock glaciers are the most widespread features in the cryosphere of the Dry Andes. Nevertheless, detailed studies on rock glacier thermal and kinematic conditions, and their relationship with the current climate are scarce in the region. Among the rock glaciers in the area, this study focuses on the Lizoite rock glacier (22°11′40″ S; 65°11′30″ W) to conduct a comprehensive study to determine its morphological characteristics, degree of activity and thermal conditions, and discuss how they interact with each other. The research includes measurements of surface flow using a GNSS system and monitoring of air and ground temperatures during the period 2014–2023, along with a detailed descriptions of Lizoite rock glacier's surface characteristics, including lithology and structures. Results indicate that the surface velocities of the rock glacier were less than 17 cm/year, with an average of 9.7 cm/year. The interannual velocity variations were compared with air temperature and precipitation records from a nearby long‐term weather station, showing a significant correlation with precipitation. Air and ground temperatures over the rock glacier are markedly high for an active feature and would indicate the degradation of the permafrost core. These findings suggest that the rock glaciers in this part of the Dry Andes are experiencing unfavourable climate conditions for ice preservation and are in a transitional stage, from active to inactive, as a consequence of the ongoing warming trend.