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Scientists have a better understanding of one of the most mysterious causes of ice loss in Antarctica.
A new study detailed how ocean currents and seafloor topography are altering the flow of warm water beneath the Dotson Ice Shelf.
What’s happening?
Researchers from the Centre for Ocean and Atmospheric Sciences and the British Antarctic Survey used an autonomous underwater vehicle to obtain measurements of water movement, turbulence, and temperature under the Dotson Ice Shelf.
They published their findings in the journal Ocean Science.
This ice form in the Amundsen Sea of West Antarctica is one of the fastest-changing structures on Earth due to global climate shifts.
Researchers found that warm water penetrates deeply — and laterally rather than upward — beneath the ice shelf. The shape of the seafloor appeared to matter more than previously believed, as it influenced the mixing of warm waters.
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Ultimately, researchers determined that prior climate models omitted key features and underestimated the extent to which warm water reached the ice and drove melting.
“This mission was the first of its kind under the Dotson Ice Shelf,” said Dr. Maren Richter, lead author of the study.
“We gained very valuable baseline measurements which can now be compared to assumptions about mixing in regional and global models of ice shelf-ocean interactions … helping us understand how these cavities are similar or different from each other.”
Why is Antarctic ice melt important?
The study improved scientists’ ability to predict future sea-level rise.
It revealed aspects missing from previous climate models and demonstrated how melting under ice sheets does more than just shave ice off.
The data showed that glaciers with weakening support experience greater mass loss and rising sea levels.
With more detailed information on how oceans are warming and glaciers are melting, policymakers, coastal planners, and communities can plan for the devastating impacts of rising seas and extreme weather.
What’s being done about Antarctic ice melt?
Studies like this one remind the scientific community and the public that steadily warming temperatures are a problem for our oceans and coastal regions.
This type of recognition can spur action to reduce pollution, strengthen infrastructure, and improve climate monitoring.
You can take steps in your own life to live more sustainably and set an example for others, creating ripple effects in communities that care about the planet.
For example, installing solar panels is an effective way to reduce monthly utility bills and to produce less household pollution. TCD’s Solar Explorer can help you assess your solar options and connect with partners like EnergySage to save thousands on a new solar project at home.
Published studies are excellent resources for understanding our changing planet and preparing for the future.
Staying informed about critical climate issues, like Antarctic ice melt, and sharing what you know with others can raise public awareness.
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