An analysis of cracks in Antarctica's Thwaites Glacier over the past 20 years indicates it is nearing a total collapse. Known as the Doomsday Glacier, this rapidly changing ice mass poses uncertainties for global sea level rise predictions.
The Thwaites Glacier in Antarctica, often called the Doomsday Glacier, stands out as one of the planet's most rapidly evolving glaciers. A recent analysis examines the expansion of cracks within it over the last two decades, pointing to the possibility of an irreversible collapse in the near future.
This glacier's behavior remains a significant puzzle in forecasting how much sea levels might rise due to climate change. Scientists highlight its role in broader environmental shifts, including impacts on geology and earth science in polar regions.
The findings underscore the urgency of monitoring such ice formations, as their instability could accelerate global changes. While the exact timeline remains unclear, the observed crack growth suggests the glacier is getting closer to a tipping point.