NEWS – A new study reveals that melting glaciers and ice caps may trigger more frequent and explosive volcanic eruptions by reducing pressure on underground magma chambers.

HIGHLIGHTS

• This phenomenon, known as isostatic rebound, occurs when the weight of glaciers is removed, allowing magma and gases to expand and erupt more easily.
• West Antarctica faces the highest risk, with ~100 volcanoes buried under thick ice expected to melt in coming decades due to global warming.
• Historical data from Iceland shows volcanic activity was 30–50 times higher during major deglaciation periods (15,000–10,000 years ago).
• The study, presented by Pablo Moreno-Yaeger (University of Wisconsin-Madison), emphasized similar risks in tectonically active zones like North America, Russia, and New Zealand.
• Chile’s Mocho Choshuenco volcano showed reduced eruptions during glaciation (~26,000–18,000 years ago), but explosive eruptions resumed ~13,000 years ago post-melting.
• Volcanic eruptions cool Earth temporarily by emitting ash and sulfur dioxide, which block solar radiation.
• Climate-induced glacier retreat thus presents dual challenges: climatic volatility and increased geophysical hazards.
• Remote sensing and geospatial technologies are crucial for monitoring glacier melt and predicting volcanic risks.

This reinforces the urgent need for climate action and geological risk preparedness