Subglacial discharge as a driver of fjord circulation in Ilulissat Icefjord

Subglacial discharge of surface meltwater significantly drives fjord circulation and enhances submarine melting at the terminus of Greenland's outlet glaciers, such as Sermeq Kujalleq (Jakobshavn Isbræ). This process, previously understudied, connects atmospheric forcing to marine glacier termini, influencing sea level rise projections. The research reveals that subglacial drainage networks evolve seasonally in response to meltwater volume changes, leading to varying discharge properties and plume dynamics throughout the runoff season. Using the GlaDS model within ISSM and MITgcm ocean modeling of Ilulissat Icefjord, scientists characterized these seasonal variations, demonstrating their impact on fjord circulation and glacier melt rates.

Kajanto, K., de Fleurian, B., Seroussi, H., Straneo, F., & Nisancioglu, K. (2023). Subglacial discharge as a driver of fjord circulation in Ilulissat Icefjord. https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-egu23-6444