Glaciers on Mt.Nyainqentanglha have been shrinking since 1970. By comparing GPS data from 1999, 2007, and 1970, researchers found that five glaciers have retreated. The Lanong, Zhadang, and Panu glaciers have been retreating at a rate of about 10 meters per year. The Xibu Glacier is retreating much faster at 38.9 meters per year. Even a small glacier in the Panu basin is shrinking at a rate of 4.8 meters per year. This not only affects the glacier termini but also expands the ablation areas around the mountain.