Ice-Front Retreat Controls on Ocean Dynamics Under Larsen C Ice Shelf, Antarctica

Journal article (2023)

Authors

M. Poinelli Physical and Space Geodesy - CEG , University of California, California Institute of Technology
Y. Nakayama Hokkaido University
E. Larour California Institute of Technology
M. Vizcaino Physical and Space Geodesy - CEG , Geoscience and Remote Sensing
R.E.M. Riva Physical and Space Geodesy - CEG , Geoscience and Remote Sensing
Research Group
Physical and Space Geodesy (CEG) (TU Delft)
Copyright: © 2023 M. Poinelli, Y. Nakayama, E. Larour, M. Vizcaino, R.E.M. Riva
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1029/2023GL104588
More Info
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Published Date

2023

Language

English

Faculty

Civil Engineering & Geosciences

Department

Geoscience and Remote Sensing

Research Group

Physical and Space Geodesy

Abstract

Iceberg A-68 separated from the Larsen C Ice Shelf in July 2017 and the impact of this event on the local ocean circulation has yet to be assessed. Here, we conduct numerical simulations of ocean dynamics near and below the ice shelf pre- and post-calving. Results agree with in situ and remote observations of the area as they indicate that basal melt is primarily controlled by wintertime sea-ice formation, which in turn produces High Salinity Shelf Water (HSSW). After the calving event, we simulate a 50% increase in HSSW intrusion under the ice shelf, enhancing ocean heat delivery by 30%. This results in doubling of the melt rate under Gipps Ice Rise, suggesting a positive feedback for further retreat that could destabilize the Larsen C Ice Shelf. Assessing the impact of ice-front retreat on the heat delivery under the ice is crucial to better understand ice-shelf dynamics in a warming environment.