These phenomena normally evade satellite tv for pc photographs as a result of clouds typically block the view. However, at the present time was an exception, offering a uncommon have a look at near-surface atmospheric occasions, explained Christopher Shuman, a glaciologist from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, based mostly at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center.
Sea Smoke on the Glacier’s Edge
Sea smoke, specifically, emerged prominently close to the glacier’s terminus and over open water at its northern boundary. This phenomenon arises because of the stark temperature distinction between the icy floor and surrounding waters. Strong winds pushed the ocean ice and water away from the glacier, drawing comparatively hotter water to the floor. When this hotter water meets the frigid air, it condenses into nice ice crystals, creating the looks of smoke over the ocean.
Winds Stirring Up Blowing Snow
At the identical time, intense winds whipped snow from the encircling ice sheet, including streams of white throughout the glacier. This blowing snow was particularly seen close to a turbulent space south of Pine Island Glacier, generally known as a shear zone, the place the collision of ice lots produces complicated formations.
The Impact of Antarctic Spring Winds on Ice Sheets
The power of those Antarctic winds, significantly in the course of the spring, is no surprise, Shuman famous. These katabatic winds, shaped as chilly, dense air descends from the excessive inside to the coast, repeatedly emerge after months of remoted, chilled air.
In areas like Pine Island, these winds can affect the polar ice sheet’s floor mass steadiness by transporting and sublimating snow. While the impression of blowing snow on ice loss stays unsure, its affect is critical, and capturing these occasions presents perception into the altering dynamics of Antarctic ice sheets.
