Time: 2024-05-21
Ocean water is infiltrating miles beneath Antarctica's Thwaites Glacier, causing significant melting and potentially accelerating global sea level rise projections. A team of glaciologists from the University of California, Irvine, used high-resolution radar data to study the glacier's grounding line, revealing the alarming impact of seawater intrusion. The research suggests that as ocean water flows beneath the glacier, it lifts the surface and increases melting, leading to a rise in sea levels. This phenomenon, previously unknown in ice sheet models, could speed up the pace of ice loss in the future.The study's findings raise concerns about the stability of Thwaites Glacier, often referred to as the 'Doomsday Glacier' due to its potential to cause catastrophic sea level rise. Thwaites Glacier, the world's widest glacier, contributes significantly to global sea level rise and holds enough ice to raise sea levels by more than 2 feet. Scientists estimate that a complete collapse of Thwaites could result in up to 10 feet of sea level rise, posing a threat to coastal communities worldwide.The research highlights the urgent need to incorporate the impact of seawater intrusion into ice sheet models to improve sea level rise projections. Glaciologists emphasize the importance of studying grounding lines and grounding zones to understand the vulnerability of glaciers to ocean water intrusion. The study underscores the critical role of satellite data in monitoring Antarctica's changing environment and the need to address the uncertainties surrounding the future of Thwaites Glacier.As Antarctica faces a lasting regime shift due to the climate crisis, researchers warn of the profound impacts of continued sea ice loss on local and global weather patterns. The study sheds light on the complex and evolving dynamics of Antarctica's ice sheets, urging further investigation into the implications of ocean water infiltration on Thwaites Glacier and beyond.
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