Recent findings uncovered beneath the Thwaites Glacier in Antarctica, also known as the “doomsday glacier,” have shocked and alarmed scientists.
Since the 1990s, the enormous amount of ice has shrunk by over nine kilometers and become less stable. It is thought to store a significant amount of water, which, if it were to entirely melt, would cause sea levels to rise by more than 2 feet everywhere. It is also thought to have the potential to release additional water if nearby glaciers are disturbed.
According to new research conducted in West Antarctica, deeper fissures are beginning to emerge on the glacier’s shelf, potentially endangering its integrity, as published in the science journal Nature.
Scientists deployed a robot called ‘Icefin’ to delve 2000 feet beneath the glacier’s surface to get a closer look at what’s going on beneath it by taking images and videos and collecting crucial data on temperature and sea levels.
Thwaites is a rapidly changing system, and of a great concern, scientists say.
Related posts:
Scientists get closer to finding HIV cure
Gene therapy scientists move closer to finding ‘cure’ for sickle cell disease
Kenya: Doomsday cult leader found guilty of illegal filming
Over 100 persons missing after Himalayan glacier breaks in northern India
India: Operation to rescue 39 persons trapped in Uttarakhand tunnel after glacier burst continues
Melting Swiss Glacier Exposes Climber Remains From 1986
UPDATE: Governor Zulum sends fact-finding team to assess Maiduguri GSM market fire
ASUU Strike: SGF to lead FG’s team to a fact- finding meeting
