Greenland’s ice sheet is breaking apart faster than expected, and that’s a serious warning sign for the planet. 

A new study shows that from 2016 to 2021, crevasses—deep cracks in the ice—have been growing at an accelerated rate. As these fractures expand, they allow more meltwater to reach the base of the ice sheet, speeding up its movement toward the ocean. This process contributes to rising sea levels, which can have major consequences for coastal communities around the world.

The findings reinforce what scientists have been warning for years: the Arctic is warming rapidly, and the impacts are becoming more visible. 

The increase in crevasses suggests that Greenland’s ice loss is not just a slow, gradual process but one that can happen in sudden, dramatic shifts. This is important because ice sheet stability is a key factor in predicting future sea level rise. And it's not just Greenland – glaciers in Iceland, Canada, Russia, Alaska, and across the Arctic AND Antarctic regions are experiencing similar changes.

While the data paints a concerning picture, it also emphasizes the urgency of taking action. Reducing greenhouse gas emissions, investing in clean energy, and supporting climate adaptation efforts can help slow these changes.