Researchers at the University of Copenhagen have uncovered decades-old aerial photographs that enhance understanding of Antarctic ice shelf collapses, essential for predicting sea level rise and guiding climate action. Captured on November 28, 1966, by an American flight, these images document the Wordie Ice Shelf, which has significantly retreated since the late 1980s, subsequently breaking the "plug" holding back glacial ice. Although its loss contributed minimally to sea level rise, larger shelves like Ronne and Ross pose a greater threat, potentially raising levels by up to 5 meters.
Utilizing these historical photographs alongside modern satellite data, the research team reveals that ice shelf collapse is a gradual process. They identified new indicators of early collapses, providing crucial data points for comprehension and predictive modeling of ice shelf dynamics. Contrary to previous assumptions linking atmospheric warmth to the Wordie shelf’s demise, the findings suggest that rising sea temperatures and melting underneath the ice were the primary drivers.
The study offers insights into the slower-than-expected collapse of ice shelves, indicating that while immediate threats may be lower, the long-term impacts of climate change necessitate urgent action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The research was published in Nature Communications.
