A strange “piping” discovered under the Antarctica worries the researchers

We thought we knew Antarctica well. However, a recent discovery could question everything. Consequently, Researchers uncovered a huge freshwater networkhidden under the ice, which accelerates the shift from glaciers to the ocean.

In June. Meanwhile, Antarctica remains at the bottom: a signal that worries climatologists – Strange “piping” discovered under antarctica

The Antarctic Banquise remains dramatically low in late Junewith an extent among the weakest ever observed, according to data from the Copernicus observatory. Consequently, It is a new worrying strange “piping” discovered under antarctica signal for climate change.

This dramatic decline. In addition, confirmed by the Copernicus observatory and other climate surveillance centers, reveals a deep disruption. Therefore, In May. Nevertheless, the extent of the ice was still 9 % lower than the averageand his volume fell by 56 %illustrating an alarming background trend.

Thanks to pressure and heat, water circulates under the ice … For example, as in a piping – Strange “piping” discovered under antarctica

Concretely, the ice exerts such pressure on the strange “piping” discovered under antarctica ground that, in places, it melts at its base. It forms liquid water pockets. This water does not remain motionless: It flows into natural canalsdug over time under the ice cap.

To better understand this mechanism, researchers combined two computer models. The first simulates the way in which water flows under the glaciers. The second predicts the reaction of the cap against climate change. By crossing them, they obtained a card of unprecedented precision.

Thanks to this cartography. they highlighted a key phenomenon: Water acts as a lubricant. It reduces friction between ice and soil. Therefore, glaciers can slide towards the sea.

However, if the ice platforms melt, the glaciers could flow without brakes

Until now, ice platforms around the continent act as a rampart. They slow down the flow of ice to the ocean. But this rampart is fragile. Indeed, with global warming, these platforms are gradually reduced.

What if they disappear? So continental glaciers are likely to swingdriven by the water flowing below. According to estimates, this could cause a increase in ocean level up to 30 cm by 2100.

In addition, the researchers have identified the strange “piping” discovered under antarctica areas where this phenomenon is the most marked. These include the center of the continent and the coastal glaciers. In these regions. the pressure exerted by water under the ice is close to that of the weight of the cap. In other words, ice is almost levitating.

A capital discovery to better anticipate the risks linked to the climate

Beyond scientific curiosity. this advance offers a essential tool. Thanks to this model, researchers can locate The most vulnerable areas. They can also anticipate the effects of melting in the years to come.

In short. what is played out under the antarctic ice cream may be one of the Key factors of the future ocean level. And now we know it.