You may have heard that the Earth vibrated for nine days in 2023 and that the event baffled scientists around the world. If you want to know more about it, you are in the right place. In September 2023, the melting of a glacier in eastern Greenland triggered a massive landslide that caused a 200-meter-high megatsunami. This occurred in Dickson Fjord, a remote area of Greenland, and was caused by the destabilization of a glacier at the base of a 1,200-meter-high mountain. Due to climate change and rising global temperatures, the glaciers had been gradually thinning. When the glacier finally gave way, it sent a colossal amount of debris into the fjord, displacing enough material to fill around 10,000 Olympic-sized swimming pools.
Mysterious global vibrations detected
Following this event, scientists noticed an unusual global phenomenon: a persistent ground vibration that lasted for nine days. Unlike earthquakes, which are usually brief and intense, this signal was a continuous low-frequency hum. Seismologists around the world were baffled by the unfamiliar pattern and initially believed it was a glitch in their equipment.
Global collaborative research
The unexpected signal triggered a year-long investigation by a group of 68 scientists from 15 different countries. By analyzing seismic readings, satellite data and computer simulations, they identified the cause. The vibrations were the result of a “seiche,” a rhythmic wave motion that occurs when water is churned back and forth within an enclosed space. The waves from the megatsunami were trapped in the narrow fjord, causing the water to oscillate for more than a week. This motion generated seismic energy that traveled around the world.
Warning about the impact of climate change
The findings highlight the unpredictable and ongoing effects of climate change in the Arctic. The melting of the glacier that triggered the landslide is a reminder that the region is entering “uncharted waters” as global temperatures continue to rise, with serious consequences for both ecosystems and human populations.
Disclaimer:
The information contained in this post is for general information purposes only. We make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the website or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on the post for any purpose.
We respect the intellectual property rights of content creators. If you are the owner of any material featured on our website and have concerns about its use, please contact us. We are committed to addressing any copyright issues promptly and will remove any material within 2 days of receiving a request from the rightful owner.