Permafrost Thaw in Arctic Causes Ground Subsidence and Gas Release
The latest in this situation
How it started
What happened
Rising temperatures are causing permafrost, which is frozen ground in the Arctic, to thaw. This thawing leads to ground subsidence and the formation of thermokarst ponds. As the organic matter within the permafrost rots, it releases carbon dioxide and methane.
Why it matters
The ground collapse threatens substantial property damage to structures built on the land, including roads and pipes. Furthermore, the release of carbon from the permafrost contributes to the warming of the Arctic, which is already warming faster than the global average.
Who's involved
Who could feel it
Possible knock-on effectsThese are possibilities Brind reasoned out, not predictions, and not advice. Most are not stated in any report.
- AlaskaSpeculative
Could face increased costs for repairing infrastructure, such as roads and pipes, due to ground subsidence
Possible ripples
Who this could reach next, traced step by step from the reporting. Possibilities worth considering, not forecasts.- How could permafrost thaw causing ground subsidence affect geology?Permafrost thaw reveals new data on Arctic ground stabilityLikely
- Permafrost thaw may force ADNR to update land use guidanceADNR may need to update land use guidance due to permafrost thawPossible
- Permafrost thaw may increase operational costs for ConocoPhillips in AlaskaPermafrost thaw may increase operational costs for ConocoPhillips in Alaska.Possible
How it developed
Newest first. Tap a step to see who reported it.- Research tracks soil temperatures showing permafrost thaw in Alaska.Sub-event
Permafrost thaw in Alaska and Siberia releases potent greenhouse gases.1 source
- Permafrost melt in Victoria Island, Sachs Harbour, and Tuktoyaktuk is causing coastal erosion and introducing harmful compounds.Sub-event
- Climate change caused glacier retreat leading to slope instability.Sub-event
Permafrost thaw causing ground subsidence.1 source