The awakening of volcanoes beneath Antarctica's ice threatens our planet 🌋

Published by Cédric,
Article author: Cédric DEPOND
Source: Geochemistry, Geophysics, Geosystems
Other Languages: FR, DE, ES, PT

Beneath Antarctica's ice, an unsuspected danger looms. Global warming could awaken dormant volcanoes, triggering a chain reaction with unpredictable consequences.


This recent discovery sheds light on a complex interaction between ice melt and volcanic activity. As Antarctica gradually loses its ice cover, the pressure on the underlying magma reservoirs decreases, increasing the risk of subglacial eruptions. These eruptions could, in turn, accelerate melting, creating a vicious cycle that is difficult to stop.

A continent of fire beneath the ice

Antarctica is home to more than 100 volcanoes, some of which are active, such as Mount Erebus. Most, however, are hidden beneath miles of ice, their activity contained by the weight of the polar ice cap. This ice acts as a lid, preventing eruptions from occurring.


Diagram of the thermomechanical model of a magma chamber with simulation of ice unloading. The light arrows indicate the gradual decrease in ice thickness.

With global warming, ice melt reduces this pressure. Simulations show that this decompression could release magma, increasing the risk of eruptions. This phenomenon, already observed in Iceland, could repeat on a much larger scale in Antarctica.

A worrying chain reaction

Ice melt not only releases magma but also the gases dissolved within it. Like opening a soda bottle, this release of gas increases pressure in magma chambers, making eruptions more likely. These eruptions, though subglacial, generate heat, further accelerating melting.

This process could persist for centuries, even if greenhouse gas emissions were reduced. Models suggest that this feedback loop could further destabilize the polar ice cap, with major implications for sea levels.

Long-term consequences

Subglacial eruptions are not directly visible, but their effects could be devastating. The heat released would weaken the ice, accelerating its flow into the ocean. This additional melt would contribute to rising sea levels, affecting coastal regions worldwide.

Scientists emphasize that this mechanism, though slow, is potentially irreversible. Current models do not yet account for these interactions, which could underestimate the future impacts of global warming.

An underestimated threat

The study published in Geochemistry, Geophysics, Geosystems warns of the risks associated with this dynamic. Antarctica's volcanoes, long considered dormant, could play a key role in climate evolution. Their awakening could amplify the effects of warming, making the situation even more critical.

Researchers call for integrating this data into climate models. Understanding these interactions is essential to anticipate the long-term consequences of ice melt and prepare societies for these changes.
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