The melting of glaciers and ice caps due to climate change heightens the likelihood of explosive volcanic eruptions by releasing pressure on underground magma chambers. Research indicates that in areas like west Antarctica, which has numerous hidden volcanoes beneath thick ice, there is a significant risk of increased volcanic activity. The ongoing loss of ice is anticipated to contribute to a cycle where volcanic eruptions may further exacerbate global warming by releasing greenhouse gases, while eruptions can also temporarily cool the planet. Thus, the interplay between climate change and volcanic activity poses serious implications for Earth's climate system.
The melting of glaciers and ice caps by the climate crisis could unleash a barrage of explosive volcanic eruptions, as loss of ice releases pressure on underground magma chambers making eruptions more likely.
The biggest risk of a resurgence of volcanic eruptions is in west Antarctica, where at least 100 volcanoes lie under thick ice, likely to be lost as global warming continues.
Sustained volcanic eruptions would contribute significant greenhouse gases, potentially initiating a vicious circle of rising temperatures, melting ice, and increased volcanic activity.
As glaciers retreat due to climate change, findings suggest volcanoes erupt more frequently and explosively, a phenomenon supported by research presented at the Goldschmidt geochemistry conference.
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