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Briana Jones (*This Is Not A Drill* Student Fellow), Lily Yu (*This Is Not A Drill* Student Fellow)

Thwaites: The Doomsday Glacier, 2023

iPad, Interactive Website

This project is built upon research conducted by the British Antarctic Survey, focusing on the dynamic changes occurring at the Thwaites Glacier in Antarctica. The primary objective of this endeavor is to depict the glacier's retreat and the imminent risk of its collapse. The study delves into three key triggers that contribute to its potential collapse: the effects of ocean melting, the weakening of the grip of underlying seamounts, and the fracturing of the glacier ice.

A significant portion of the study is dedicated to a thorough examination of the Thwaites Grounding Zone. This critical area is scrutinized to comprehend the intricate processes of glacier melting, providing an in-depth anatomical analysis of the ongoing phenomena.

If current trends persist, by the year 2030 the Thwaites Glacier's collapse could initiate a chain reaction of events that would have far-reaching consequences. These consequences would reverberate throughout the West Antarctic Ice Sheet, ultimately resulting in a substantial rise in sea levels. Notably, the Thwaites Glacier has the capacity to elevate sea levels by approximately 65 centimeters, making it a pivotal contributor to the escalating sea level challenges of the 21st century.

The project goes beyond mere research and analysis, utilizing visual representations to convey the glacier's complex structure and the intricate process of its melting. Furthermore, the project dives into the potential aftermath of the glacier's collapse.

In summary, this project, based on research from the British Antarctic Survey, offers a comprehensive understanding of the Thwaites Glacier's behavior. It elucidates the factors that could trigger its collapse, such as ocean melting, seamount grip weakening, and ice fracturing. By meticulously studying the Thwaites Grounding Zone, the project sheds light on the glacier melting process and its underlying anatomical intricacies. The projected timeline of a collapse by 2030 underscores the urgency of the situation, as the ensuing effects could impact the broader West Antarctic Ice Sheet and consequently raise global sea levels. Through both visual renderings and thoughtful analysis, the project serves as a valuable resource for comprehending Thwaites Glacier's collapse.