A new study has revealed that tropical glaciers in South America have retreated to levels unseen since the last ice age, 11,700 years ago. Analysis of rocks near four Andean glaciers indicates this rapid retreat, raising concerns that other global glaciers may also be shrinking much faster than anticipated.
A new study published in the journal Science reveals that the tropical glaciers of South America have retreated to their lowest since the last ice age ended 11,700 years ago.
Scientists had predicted glacier melting due to rising tropical temperatures. However, the study's analysis of rocks near four glaciers in the Andes Mountains indicates far more rapid retreat, surpassing an alarming milestone, noted co-author Jeremy Shakun, associate professor of earth and environmental sciences at Boston College.
The primary mountain range in South America, the Andes, stretches across Argentina, Chile, and Bolivia, making the findings particularly significant. The study warns this rapid retreat suggests more global glaciers may be shrinking faster than expected, possibly decades ahead of predictions.
(With inputs from agencies.)
