A new study shows that channels beneath Antarctic ice shelves can trap warm ocean water and accelerate melting from below. Researchers focused on the Fimbulisen Ice Shelf in East Antarctica and found that this process may make even cold regions more vulnerable. The findings suggest current climate models could underestimate future sea level rise.
Scientists discovered that the shape of the ice shelf underside plays an active role in trapping heat. Long channels carved into the base allow small circulation patterns to hold warmer water against the ice for longer periods. This effect increases melting by roughly an order of magnitude in some areas, according to the research led by Tore Hattermann and Qin Zhou.