Heavy rainfall could make glacier surges more frequent

Researchers found that heavy rainfall can double the speed of Sít’ Kusá Glacier in Alaska, indicating significant changes in glacier behavior. During rainfall events, the glacier experiences surges lasting longer than previously observed, impacting its overall dynamics. Drainage efficiency is crucial as it influences how water interacts with the glacier, affecting its movement. Increased rainfall linked to climate change may lead to more frequent glacier accelerations in the future.