Greenland’s 9-Day Collapse: How a Massive Landslide Triggered a 656-Foot Mega-Tsunami and Sent Shockwaves Across the Globe

In September 2023, an unusual seismic signal puzzled scientists around the world. This signal lasted for nine days, originating from a massive landslide in Greenland’s Dickson Fjord. It was a low, continuous hum that didn’t resemble any typical earthquake vibrations. Experts like Stephen Hicks from University College London found this phenomenon baffling due to its persistent nature.

The signal traced back to a significant rockslide, linked to rising temperatures and melting glaciers. This landslide caused a mega-tsunami that reached heights of 656 feet, sending massive waves through the fjord. Researchers noted that these seismic waves traveled globally, emphasizing a concerning trend: climate change is increasingly triggering such extreme geological events.

Thomas Monahan, the lead author of the study from the University of Oxford, highlighted the link between climate change and rising disaster risks in remote areas. As glaciers thin, regions once considered stable are now vulnerable to sudden collapses. Recent research indicates that landslides in Greenland, once rare, may become common, aligning with a study showing a 38% increase in landslide occurrences in the Arctic since 2000.

Using advanced satellite technology like the Surface Water Ocean Topography (SWOT) mission was crucial for capturing this event. SWOT provided critical data by measuring oceanic movements and detecting the seiche effect—the oscillation of water in the fjord caused by the landslide. This real-time monitoring is becoming vital for better assessment and prediction of such events, especially in hard-to-reach areas.

The Greenland landslide serves as a stark reminder of the interconnectedness of Earth’s systems. Understanding these links can help improve disaster preparedness. As climate change continues to evolve, the need for effective monitoring and global collaboration becomes more pressing. By harnessing modern technology, we can work towards safer, more sustainable solutions for our planet.

For further details, you can explore the original study, which sheds light on this significant event.

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