A massive landslide in Greenland, triggered by climate change, caused a mega-tsunami that led to the entire Earth vibrating for nine days. This extraordinary event has caught the attention of scientists worldwide, highlighting the far-reaching consequences of global warming. Information from The Guardian.

The Unprecedented Event

On September 16, 2023, a 1,200-meter mountain peak in eastern Greenland collapsed into the Dickson fjord. The resulting landslide created a colossal tsunami wave reaching heights of up to 200 meters. What makes this event particularly significant is the duration of its impact: the Earth continued to vibrate for nine days following the initial collapse.

The event was initially detected by earthquake sensors worldwide, puzzling scientists with its unusual characteristics. Unlike typical earthquake readings, this seismic signal was longer and simpler, leading researchers to label it as an "unidentified seismic object" (USO).

Dr. Kristian Svennevig from the Geological Survey of Denmark and Greenland, who led the investigation, stated, "When we set out on this scientific adventure, everybody was puzzled, and no one had the faintest idea what caused this signal."

Climate Change Connection

The landslide was attributed to the effects of climate change. Rising temperatures had caused the glacier beneath the mountain to melt, rendering it incapable of supporting the massive rock face above. This event serves as a stark reminder of how global warming is affecting previously stable regions, particularly in the Arctic, which is experiencing the most rapid warming on Earth.

To unravel the mystery behind this seismic event, an international team of 68 scientists from 40 institutions across 15 countries collaborated. They integrated various data sources, including seismic data, satellite imagery, field measurements, and high-resolution computer simulations. Their findings, published in the journal Science, revealed that approximately 25 million cubic meters of ice and rock plunged into the fjord, traveling at least 2,200 meters along its length.

This event has significant implications for our understanding of climate change impacts:

• It demonstrates how warming temperatures can destabilize landscapes, even in areas previously considered stable.

• The global reach of the seismic waves (traveling from Greenland to Antarctica in under an hour) illustrates the interconnectedness of Earth's systems.

• Scientists warn that such events may become more common as global temperatures continue to rise.

The Greenland mega-tsunami and its nine-day Earth vibration serve as a powerful reminder of the complex and far-reaching impacts of climate change. As we continue to witness and study such events, the urgency for global action on climate change becomes increasingly apparent. This incident not only reshapes our understanding of geological events but also emphasizes the critical need for continued research and proactive measures to mitigate the effects of global warming.