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Huge New Cracks Seen in Arctic Ice Shelf

Giant ice shelf is falling apart and could float away

By Rob Quinn,  Newser Staff

Posted May 24, 2008 6:24 AM CDT

(Newser) – A Canadian expedition has found a major new network of cracks, more than 10 miles long, in the Arctic's ice shelves, the BBC reports. Scientists say the huge shelves are disintegrating; pieces become "ice islands" that can float hundreds of miles away as climate changes takes hold. Arctic sea ice shrank to a record low last year and could melt even further this summer, accelerating a scramble for the Arctic's resources.

In Greenland, broken water in the previously solid icecap is the starkest evidence of climate change.
In Greenland, broken water in the previously solid icecap is the starkest evidence of climate change.   (Magnum Photos)
An iceberg melts off Ammassalik Island in Eastern Greenland in this July 19, 2007 file photo. Arctic ice has shrunk to the lowest level on record, new satellite images
An iceberg melts off Ammassalik Island in Eastern Greenland in this July 19, 2007 file photo. Arctic ice has shrunk to the lowest level on record, new satellite images   (AP Photo/John McConnico)
In Greenland, melting ice forms lakes and rivers along the edges of Greenland's 3000 metre ice cap. Each year the melting gets further inland.
In Greenland, melting ice forms lakes and rivers along the edges of Greenland's 3000 metre ice cap. Each year the melting gets further inland.   (Magnum Photos)
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Green • World

 
climate change • Canada • Arctic • Canadian Arctic • ice melt • ice shelf • Arctic sea ice

 
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