Melting Glaciers Could Drive Volcanos

New research indicates that as ice sheets and glaciers melt, they increase the likelihood of volcanic eruptions. The problem could become a reality soon.

The Guardian reviewed a research paper and found, “Global heating caused by the burning of fossil fuels is now melting ice caps and glaciers across the world. The biggest risk of a resurgence of volcanic eruptions is in west Antarctica, the researchers said, where at least 100 volcanoes lie under the thick ice.”

Problem Is Widespread

The problem extends far beyond Antarctica to areas in America, New Zealand, and Russia.

How much danger does this represent? It is hard to tell. Much of the concern centers on the melting that is expected to occur decades from now. There is also no map of which inactive volcanoes might become active. 

The research is among the climate studies that are interesting, but has no direct application as a threat to humans, even those born later in the century.