ECHOES OF THE LAST MIND

ORIGIN: https://www.yourweather.co.uk/news/

New scientific research warns that the rapid retreat of the West Antarctic Ice Sheet not only threatens to raise sea levels, but could also fundamentally alter the continent’s geology. These processes have the potential to trigger abrupt and difficult-to-reverse effects.

New studies reveal that melting in West Antarctica not only affects sea level, but also generates significant geological changes across the continent. Image: CC.

West Antarctica is particularly vulnerable because much of its base lies below sea level. This configuration allows relatively warmer ocean waters to flow beneath glaciers, accelerating melting from below. According to Live Science, this mechanism is already active and is weakening key sectors of the ice sheet.

The melting of West Antarctica not only raises sea levels; it can also reshape the continent’s geology and amplify climate extremes that already affect millions of people.

Melting does not occur slowly or uniformly. Geological evidence shows that Antarctic ice retreated very rapidly in the past once certain temperature thresholds were crossed. These precedents reinforce concerns that the current system could shift abruptly over a short period