On September 13, 2024, a groundbreaking discovery was made regarding an unusual seismic event that shook the Earth for nine days. Initially classified as an ‘Unidentified Seismic Object’ (USO), scientists were puzzled by a monotonous planetary hum that persisted for an unprecedented length of time.
After extensive research and collaboration with 66 scientists from 40 institutions across 15 countries, the source of this mysterious signal was traced back to a massive landslide in Greenland’s remote Dickson Fjord. The landslide, triggered by a staggering volume of rock and ice, resulted in a 200-metre-high mega-tsunami and a seiche phenomenon that continued for nine days.
This catastrophic event, detailed in a publication in the journal Science, highlighted the cascading chain of events that led to the collapse. Decades of global heating had thinned the glacier, making it unable to support the towering mountain above it, ultimately resulting in the landslide.
The implications of this event go beyond the scientific marvel it represents. It serves as a stark reminder of the impact of climate change on our planet and our scientific understanding. As we navigate uncharted waters, we must be prepared to witness more phenomena that challenge our existing knowledge.
The seismic waves generated by the Greenland landslide traveled globally within an hour of the event, emphasizing the far-reaching consequences of climate change-induced events. As permafrost continues to warm and glaciers thin, similar catastrophic events are expected to occur more frequently in polar and mountainous regions worldwide.
This event underscores the need for a shift in our scientific methods and mindset to adapt to the changing climate. As we confront unexpected and extreme events, we must be prepared to think differently and make informed decisions to mitigate the impact of climate change.
The groundbreaking discovery in Greenland serves as a wake-up call for decision-makers to take action in addressing climate change and its consequences. The scientific community must continue to adapt and lead the way in understanding and responding to the challenges posed by our rapidly changing climate.
This article, originally published on The Conversation, sheds light on the seismic event that shook the planet and emphasizes the importance of being proactive in the face of climate change-induced disasters.
