Modeling ice flow variability of the Kangerlussuaq Glacier, southeast Greenland, during 1900-2021

By Eigil Yuichi Hyldgaard Lippert1, M. Morlighem (contributor)2, C. Gong (contributor)2, S. Khan (contributor)1

1. Technical University of Denmark 2. Dartmouth College

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Abstract

Observations show significant ice loss associated with the speed-up of the Kangerlussuaq Glacier (KG) in Greenland since the 2000s. Short-term perturbations significantly impact its mass balance on decadal scales. Utilising a long-term data record going back to 1900 together with the Ice-sheet and Sea-level System Model (ISSM) we reconstruct KG since 1900. The final model state is in excellent agreement with today's observed velocity and ice thickness. We estimate at least 250 Gt ice mass loss over the past century. Experiments with various external forcings reveal that the retreat of the ice front alone explains most of the glacier's dynamic variability and mass change.

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Researchers should cite this work as follows:

  • Eigil Yuichi Hyldgaard Lippert; M. Morlighem; C. Gong; S. Khan (2023), "Modeling ice flow variability of the Kangerlussuaq Glacier, southeast Greenland, during 1900-2021," https://theghub.org/resources/4923.

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Tags

  1. Little Ice Age
  2. numerical modeling
  3. SSA