A mystery lake that dries up and fills up again in a few hours; Know here what scientists are saying

Now, researchers are starting a detailed geological survey in an attempt to uncover the mysteries of this amazing phenomenon.

New Delhi: The mysterious lake Lougharima or The Vanishing Lake located in the hills of Northern Ireland has puzzled scientists for years.

This lake, which is considered one of the most mysterious geological sites in the world, can be completely full in the morning, but after a few hours it becomes completely empty.

Now, researchers are starting a detailed geological survey in an attempt to uncover the mysteries of this amazing phenomenon. Geologists have made many speculations about the water coming and disappearing in the lake.

Local beliefs related to the lake

For the locals, the strange behavior of Lougharima is associated with ghosts. It is said that on the nights when the lake is completely full, there is a ghost shadow on the shoreline. Some people claim to see Kelpie (horse-like creature that can take human form) here. According to another local legend, a carriage full of people sank here in the late 19th century. The voices of those trapped in the deep water can still be heard today.

Estimation of underground drainage system

Dr Paul Wilson, a hydro-geologist with the British Geological Survey, has recently started a detailed study of Lougharima. He said that Lougharima is a dynamic landscape and it is exciting to guess what state it will be in when you approach the lake. Three rivers flow into it and none flows out of it.

Wilson estimates that there is a sink right below the lake, which drains all the water into an underground drainage system. However, this has not been fully understood yet. Dr Wilson's study is in two parts. In the first part, a camera has been used to take time-lapse photographs of the lake. In the second part, water level loggers have been used at various locations to measure the rate of filling and emptying of the lake.

Other theories related to pressure and sediment
One theory about the lake's behavior, presented by Live Science, is related to pressure and sediment. According to this theory, the three rivers flowing into the lake also bring debris with them, which settles on the lake bed and eventually covers the underwater drain. When the hole is completely closed, the water level rises rapidly. When the water reaches a certain level, the pressure on the drain suddenly opens the hole. During this process, the water starts flowing again and the lake starts emptying. This process continues.