The Greenland Ice Sheet is cracking at an alarming rate. New research shows crevasses are getting bigger and deeper as ice flows faster due to climate change.
A team from Durham University, UK, used 3D surface maps to track ice sheet changes from 2016 to 2021. Their findings reveal that fractures are expanding more quickly than previously recorded. Scientists warn this could speed up ice loss and contribute to rising sea levels.
Crevasses are deep fractures that form when ice moves faster. Climate change is making them larger and deeper due to two major factors:
- Warmer ocean temperatures accelerate glacier movement.
- Meltwater seeps into cracks, forcing them to expand and deepen.
KEY FINDINGS FROM THE STUDY
- Crevasse volume increased by up to 25% in fast-moving glaciers.
- A slowdown at Sermeq Kujalleq, Greenland’s fastest glacier, temporarily offset the total crevasse increase to 4.3%.
- However, Sermeq Kujalleq’s speed has picked up again, meaning ice loss could accelerate further.
GREENLAND’S IMPACT ON SEA LEVELS
Since 1992, Greenland has contributed 14mm to global sea level rise. This is due to both melting ice and faster glacier flow into the ocean. Scientists warn that if the entire ice sheet melts, sea levels could rise by 7 meters (23 feet).
Projected Impact by 2100
- Greenland could add up to 30cm (1 foot) to sea levels.
- Faster glacier movement will result in more icebergs breaking off into the ocean.
- Rising sea levels could threaten coastal cities worldwide.
A CHAIN REACTION LEADING TO FASTER ICE LOSS
Dr. Tom Chudley, lead author of the study, emphasized the urgency of the findings. “We now see that not only are crevasse fields spreading, but existing cracks are expanding at an alarming rate.”
Professor Ian Howat from Ohio State University explains the long-term risk. “Larger crevasses allow more heat and water to reach the ice sheet’s interior. This speeds up ice movement, which then leads to even more crevasses. It’s a dangerous cycle that could dramatically accelerate Greenland’s ice loss.”
HOW SCIENTISTS MEASURED ICE CRACKS
Researchers analyzed over 8,000 3D surface maps created from high-resolution satellite imagery. They used data from the ArcticDEM project, a public-private initiative that provides precise Arctic elevation models.
WHAT’S NEXT?
The ArcticDEM project will continue providing high-resolution models until at least 2032. This will allow scientists to track glacier changes and predict future climate impacts.
With Arctic temperatures rising four times faster than the global average, continued monitoring is essential. The study highlights the urgent need for climate action to slow ice loss and mitigate rising sea levels.