Accelerated Arctic permafrost thawing increases river erosion rates, impacting infrastructure, wildlife habitats, and Arctic villages.

Thawing permafrost in the Arctic is accelerating river erosion, particularly affecting the Koyukuk River in Alaska. A Caltech study indicates that as permafrost melts, erosion rates could increase by 30-100%, threatening infrastructure and wildlife habitats. Permafrost currently slows river migration by 47%, but its loss may destabilize riverbanks, posing risks to 43% of Arctic villages located near rivers. Continued research is essential to address these impacts.

October 09, 2024
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