Hidden Quakes Unveil Instability at Antarctica's Thwaites Glacier

August 30, 2026

Hundreds of previously undetected seismic events have been identified beneath Antarctica, with 245 occurring near the marine edge of the Thwaites Glacier. These glacial earthquakes are triggered by icebergs breaking off and colliding with the glacier.

The increased seismic activity aligns with a period when Thwaites was flowing faster towards the ocean, suggesting that changing ocean conditions may be destabilizing the ice.

This instability could have significant implications for global sea levels as Thwaites is already contributing significantly to rising seas. The findings highlight the need for continuous monitoring of glacial dynamics and their response to environmental changes.

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Hundreds of hidden earthquakes found at Antarctica’s Doomsday Glacier

Hundreds of previously overlooked seismic events have been detected beneath Antarctica, including 245 near the marine edge of the Thwaites Glacier. Many appear to be glacial earthquakes caused when huge icebergs break off, capsize, and collide with the glacier. The surge in activity coincided with a period when Thwaites was flowing faster toward the ocean, hinting that changing ocean conditions may be destabilizing the ice.