Work

Ice dynamics and structural evolution of Jutulstraumen, Dronning Maud Land, East Antarctica (1963–2022)

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Jutulstraumen is a major outlet glacier in East Antarctica that drains into the Fimbulisen, Dronning Maud Land (DML). Here, we present the first long-term (∼60 years) record of its behavior using optical satellite imagery. Our analysis reveals that the ice front has been steadily advancing since its last major calving event in 1967, with a steady ice flow velocity of ∼720 ± 66 m yr−1 (2000–2021), accompanied by spatially variable thickening of the grounded ice at +0.14 ± 0.04 m yr−1 (2003–2020). We also find evidence to suggest a minor grounding line advance of ∼200 m between 1990 and 2022, albeit with large uncertainties. Mapping of the major rifts on Jutulstraumen’s ice tongue (2003–2022) reveals an overall increase in their length, accompanied by some minor calving events along its lateral margins. Given the present-day ice front advance rates (∼740 m yr−1), the ice tongue would reach its most recent maximum extent (attained in the mid-1960s), in ∼40 years, but extrapolation of rift lengthening suggests that a major calving event may occur sooner, possibly in the late 2050s. Overall, there is no evidence of any dynamic imbalance, mirroring other major glaciers in DML.

Source: Journal of Glaciology

DOI: 10.1017/jog.2025.29

Authors: Anwesha Sharma, Chris R. Stokes, Stewart S.R. Jamieson

Institution: Durham University

Language: English

Topic: Cryospheric studies and observations

Subfield: Atmospheric Science

Field: Earth and Planetary Sciences

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Climate action

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,600