Glaciers in Alaska Rapidly Melting Due to Rising Temperatures

An increase of 1 degree Celsius in average summer temperatures has extended the melting period of glaciers in Alaska by nearly three weeks, according to a recent study. Published in the scientific journal Nature, the research analyzed over 3,000 glaciers from 2016 to 2024. Rapid warming has caused glaciers to lose up to 28 percent more of their protective snow cover compared to typical years. Kathmandu, May 31.

The direct impact of global temperature rise is becoming increasingly evident on Alaska’s glaciers. Researchers from the University of Alaska Fairbanks and Carnegie Mellon University used satellite data to reveal that for every 1 degree Celsius increase in average summer temperature, glacier melting lasts about three weeks longer. Their study examined on-site and satellite records of over 3,000 glaciers in Alaska between 2016 and 2024.

The team utilized Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) technology from Europe’s Sentinel-1 radar satellite for data collection. Unlike traditional optical sensors, this radar technology can capture clear images of the earth’s surface through clouds, darkness, or poor weather conditions. Researchers note that SAR provides more reliable and continuous data on glacier snowlines and melting days compared to conventional methods.

During extreme heat events, glaciers lose up to 28 percent more of their protective snow cover compared to average years. When this protective layer diminishes rapidly, the underlying ice becomes directly exposed to sunlight, accelerating the melting process. The research team focused particularly on the devastating heatwave in Alaska from June 23 to July 10, 2019, when temperatures exceeded normal levels by 20 to 30 degrees Fahrenheit. Anchorage International Airport recorded its highest temperature ever at 90 degrees Fahrenheit during this period.

This intense heat pushed the glacier snowlines approximately 350 feet higher nearly two months earlier than usual, highlighting glaciers’ sensitivity to seasonal changes. Lead author Dr. Albin Wells explained that coastal and inland glaciers exhibit different melting patterns, with coastal glaciers melting more during summer and accumulating more snow in winter. Scientists emphasize that this advanced radar technology will facilitate more accurate assessments of glacier health and help predict the impacts of climate change worldwide.