Thwaites glacier instability

Thread starter jim mcnamara
Start date Jul 29, 2025

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the recent paper estimating the breakup of the Thwaites Glacier, which is advancing at a rate of 2 kilometers per year. This rapid movement raises significant concerns regarding its implications for global sea level rise and climate change. The Thwaites Glacier, known for its substantial size, is a critical focus for researchers studying glacial instability and its environmental impact.

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Understanding of glaciology and glacier dynamics
Familiarity with climate change implications on sea levels
Knowledge of remote sensing techniques for glacier monitoring
Awareness of the Thwaites Glacier's geographical and environmental significance

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Research the latest findings on Thwaites Glacier's melting rates and their impact on global sea levels
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Investigate climate models predicting future sea level rise due to glacial instability
Examine the role of glacial melt in ocean circulation patterns

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Climate scientists, environmental researchers, policymakers, and anyone interested in the effects of glacial instability on climate change and sea level rise.

Jul 29, 2025

jim mcnamara

Mentor

https://agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1029/2024JF008118

A recent paper on the attempts to estimate when and how massive the Thwaites breakup may be.

Earth sciences news on Phys.org

Aug 30, 2025

sbrothy

Gold Member

Wiki says 2 km/year. Isn’t that quite fast for a glacier?

But that doesn’t bode well for the climate, I’m sure. I understand it’s positively massive.