An Unmapped Region of Antarctica Could Be Harboring a Major Threat
A new study warns that the Wilkes Subglacial Basin in East Antarctica is more vulnerable to climate change than previously thought. The basin contains enough ice to raise global sea levels by up to 13 feet, making it a critical area for future climate research.
Why it matters
Understanding the stability of this massive ice store is essential for accurate global sea-level rise projections and climate adaptation planning.
A vast region of East Antarctica contains enough ice to cause a dramatic rise in global sea levels but was considered relatively stable before. Now, a new study is urging scientists to take a closer look at the Wilkes Subglacial Basin, warning that as the climate warms, this hidden Antarctic ice store could become a significant driver of future sea-level rise.
The Wilkes Subglacial Basin is a huge depression in the bedrock beneath the East Antarctic Ice Sheet. Although it is one of the more important parts of Antarctica when it comes to future sea-level rise, it remains vastly unexplored.
Also covering this story
One other newsroom covered this event. We read that version too.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in