Story perspectives

Underwater Waves Boost Greenland Ice Loss, Study Reveals

3/19/2026

Summary

Story summary

The University of Zurich and the University of Washington report that underwater waves triggered by iceberg calving push warm water against glacier bases and create a calving multiplier effect that increases Greenland ice loss.
Researchers at the University of Bergen find thermal convection beneath the ice sheet drives swirling plumes, suggesting deep ice may be softer.
These findings could improve predictions of sea level rise and emphasize Greenland's ice dynamics.

1 of 1

Story summary

The University of Zurich and the University of Washington report that underwater waves triggered by iceberg calving push warm water against glacier bases and create a calving multiplier effect that increases Greenland ice loss.
Researchers at the University of Bergen find thermal convection beneath the ice sheet drives swirling plumes, suggesting deep ice may be softer.
These findings could improve predictions of sea level rise and emphasize Greenland's ice dynamics.