Greenland's Melting Glaciers Pose Dire Threat to Sea Levels

A new study published in Nature Communications reveals that northern Greenland's glaciers, previously considered stable, are now in trouble. The study shows that as the ocean warms, the ice shelves supporting these glaciers are rapidly weakening, leading to potential "dramatic" consequences for sea level rise. The ice shelves have lost over 35% of their total volume since 1978, with three collapsing completely and the remaining five melting and destabilizing nearby glaciers. The main driver of ice loss is basal melting caused by warm ocean currents. The retreat of grounding lines and increased ice discharge into the ocean could further contribute to sea level rise. The study emphasizes the need for continued monitoring and action to mitigate climate change's impact on Greenland's ice sheet and the fate of larger ice shelves in Antarctica.