Antarctic 'Doomsday Glacier' Less Likely to Collapse, Study Finds

Scientists Reassure Public, but Climate Change Concerns Remain

Initial Studies Overestimated Glacier's Vulnerability

Initial studies overestimated the vulnerability of the Thwaites Glacier, nicknamed the "Doomsday Glacier," to collapse, according to a new study. Researchers at the University of Chicago found that the glacier is less likely to collapse than previously thought, reducing the risk of catastrophic sea-level rise.

The study, published in the journal Nature, used new data and computer models to assess the glacier's stability. The researchers found that the glacier's ice cliffs, which were initially thought to be highly vulnerable to collapse, are actually stronger and more stable than previously estimated.

The findings provide some reassurance to scientists and policymakers concerned about the potential impact of the Thwaites Glacier's collapse. However, the researchers caution that climate change remains a major threat to the glacier and that further research is needed to fully understand its stability.

Key Findings of the Study

• Thwaites Glacier is less likely to collapse than previously thought.
• The glacier's ice cliffs are stronger and more stable than initially estimated.
• Climate change remains a major threat to the glacier.
• Further research is needed to fully understand the glacier's stability.

The study's findings do not eliminate the risk of the Thwaites Glacier collapsing, but they do reduce the likelihood of such an event occurring in the near future. This provides some reassurance to scientists and policymakers concerned about the potential impact of the glacier's collapse on global sea levels.

Implications for Climate Change Policy

The study's findings have implications for climate change policy. By reducing the likelihood of a near-term collapse of the Thwaites Glacier, the study buys policymakers some time to develop and implement policies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate the effects of climate change.

However, the study's findings also serve as a reminder that climate change remains a major threat to the Thwaites Glacier and other glaciers around the world. It is crucial for policymakers to continue to prioritize climate change mitigation efforts in order to reduce the risk of catastrophic sea-level rise in the long term.