Northern and central Greenland were warmer in the early 21st century compared to any period in at least the past 1,000 years, a new study found, Andrew writes.
Why it matters: The research offers the first conclusive evidence of human-induced long-term warming and increased meltwater runoff in the northern and central parts of Greenland, which are its coldest areas.
- The pace and extent of Greenland’s ice melt will help determine the fate of coastal communities worldwide, given its contribution to sea level rise.
The big picture: The study, published in the journal Nature, finds that the warming during 2000-2011 exceeded the peak from swings in temperatures during pre-industrial times “with virtual certainty,” and is about 1.5°C warmer than it was during the 20th century.
- The likelihood that such temperatures would occur during the period from 1000-1800 is “close to zero,” the paper states.
- The researchers used high-quality ice core and other climate records.
Threat level: “Global warming is now detectable in one of the most remote regions of the world,” the study states.
What they’re saying: “I hope this is a reminder for everyone that we should be worried, very worried about the Greenland ice sheet melting away,” Eric Rignot of UC Irvine, who was not involved in the study, told Axios via email.