Work

Ice‐Front Retreat Controls on Ocean Dynamics Under Larsen C Ice Shelf, Antarctica

Year: 2023

Type: article

Abstract: Iceberg A‐68 separated from the Larsen C Ice Shelf in July 2017 and the impact of this event on the local ocean circulation has yet to be assessed. Here, we conduct numerical simulations of ocean dynamics near and below the ice shelf pre‐ and post‐calving. Results agree with in situ and remote observations of the area as they indicate that basal melt is primarily controlled by wintertime sea‐ice formation, which in turn produces High Salinity Shelf Water (HSSW). After the calving event, we simulate a 50% increase in HSSW intrusion under the ice shelf, enhancing ocean heat delivery by 30%. This results in doubling of the melt rate under Gipps Ice Rise, suggesting a positive feedback for further retreat that could destabilize the Larsen C Ice Shelf. Assessing the impact of ice‐front retreat on the heat delivery under the ice is crucial to better understand ice‐shelf dynamics in a warming environment.

Source: Geophysical Research Letters

DOI: 10.1029/2023gl104588

Authors: M. Poinelli, Y. Nakayama, E. Larour, M. Vizcaino, R. Riva

Institutions: Jet Propulsion Laboratory, University of California, Irvine, Delft University of Technology, Hokkaido University, Institute of Low Temperature Science, Hokkaido University

Language: English

Topic: Cryospheric studies and observations

Subfield: Atmospheric Science

Field: Earth and Planetary Sciences

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Climate action, Life below water

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,900