SCIENTISTS DISCOVER WORLD’S LARGEST UNDERGROUND THERMAL LAKE IN ALBANIA

Sun 09 February 2025:

A team of Czech scientists has discovered the world’s largest underground thermal lake in Albania, according to Czech media.

The discovery came after years of exploration led by Czech speleologist Marek Audy, who had suspected the existence of a hidden thermal cave system in Albania’s southern Vromoner region, public broadcaster Radio Prague reported on Thursday.

While mapping the area, near the Greek border, and tracking steam from numerous heated springs, scientists discovered a 100-meter-deep (328-foot) abyss.

At its bottom, they found the lake, which measures 138 meters (452 feet) in length and 42 meters (137 feet) in width.

With a circumference of 345 meters (1,131 feet), the lake can hold roughly three times the water volume of the main hall of Prague’s National Theater.

Scientists say they now know that the surrounding hot springs are fed with water from the underground lake.

“We believe this discovery could also contribute to the protection of the whole area and to a better understanding of its hydrology, because to this day, nobody knows how exactly these underground waters are connected to the surface,” team member Richard Bouda, a photographer and speleologist, told Radio Prague.

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Thermal lakes are natural wonders that are warmed by heat from the Earth’s interior. Imagine soaking in a warm, soothing lake that’s rich in minerals and microorganisms, surrounded by stunning natural beauty.

What makes thermal lakes special?

– Unique ecosystems: Thermal lakes support unique communities of plants and microorganisms that can’t be found anywhere else. For example, Lake Hévíz in Hungary is home to several species of bacteria, algae, and fungi that are found only in this lake.
– Healing properties: The warm, mineral-rich waters of thermal lakes have been prized for their healing properties for centuries. They’re said to be beneficial for people with rheumatic diseases and locomotor disorders.
– Constant renewal: The water in thermal lakes is constantly being replenished, which helps to maintain their unique chemistry and ecosystems. Lake Hévíz, for example, has a water residence time of just 72 hours.

Overall, thermal lakes are incredible natural wonders that offer a glimpse into the Earth’s hidden world of heat and minerals.

-Source: AA

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