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The Doomsday Glacier is melting ‘more aggressively’ than thought, study finds
CNN • • science
Key Points:
- New research indicates that Thwaites Glacier in West Antarctica is melting more aggressively than previously thought, potentially doubling its contribution to global sea level rise by 2100 to about 1.2 inches.
- The study highlights the importance of the glacier's "grounding zone," where tidal pumping allows warm ocean water to penetrate beneath the ice, accelerating melting and retreat.
- There is a 60% chance the glacier will unpin from a key underwater ridge by the end of the century, which could lead to rapid ice loss and significantly higher sea level rise.
- These findings suggest that the risks of coastal flooding and sea level rise may be greater than anticipated, posing increased threats to vulnerable coastal communities worldwide.
- Scientists emphasize the need for further research and direct observations beneath Thwaites Glacier, with planned expeditions in 2028 to better understand these melting processes and improve future predictions.
