Who / What
Lake Baikal is a freshwater rift lake located in southern Siberia, Russia. It is the deepest lake in the world and the seventh‑largest by surface area.
Background & History
Lake Baikal is a freshwater rift lake located in southern Siberia, Russia. It sits between the federal subjects of Irkutsk Oblast to the northwest and the Republic of Buryatia to the southeast. The lake spans 31,722 km², slightly larger than Belgium. Its formation as a rift makes it one of the world’s deepest lakes.
Why Notable
Lake Baikal holds the title of deepest lake worldwide, giving it unique hydrological characteristics. Its vast surface area makes it the largest lake in northern Eurasia after the Caspian Sea. The lake’s considerable size and depth contribute to its global ecological influence. Its prominence in Russian geography and international recognition mark it as a notable natural landmark.
In the News
Lake Baikal remains a central focus of environmental and geological research. Its status as the deepest lake continues to attract scientific interest. Public and academic discussions underscore the importance of preserving its unique ecosystem.
