What will happen when the permafrost thaws?

Photo by Scott Zolkos.
What will happen when the permafrost thaws?
Since the Industrial Revolution nearly 150 years ago, global average temperatures have increased by more than 1 degree C (1.9 degrees F), with the majority of that warming occurring since 1975. But during these recent decades of accelerated warming, temperatures in the arctic (latitudes above 66 degrees north) have have been rising even faster – nearly four times faster than the average global rate.
Climate Now
Research area
Latest in Arctic

- In The News
January 2025 was warmest on record as climate change ‘overwhelms’ La Niña’s cooling
Read on Mongabay
Mentions
Jennifer A. Francis

- In The News
Warmth is weakening the polar vortex. Here’s what it means for extreme cold.
Read on The Washington Post
Mentions
Jennifer A. Francis

- In The News
Sobering news for the North
Read on CBC
Mentions
Anna Virkkala