A massive ice island, approximately the size of Manhattan, has calved off Greenland’s Petermann Glacier, marking a significant event in glacial retreat. The 76-square-kilometer slab broke free on August 4, following rapid crack propagation observed by satellites.

This calving is the largest since 2012 and signals an ongoing trend of ice loss from the Arctic region. Scientists warn that two additional large pieces could potentially break off in the future, further contributing to sea level rise.

The drifting iceberg will be closely monitored as it breaks apart, posing potential risks to shipping routes and highlighting the increasing vulnerability of coastal communities to rising seas.