Disappearing lakes, old photos and AI are helping scientists map Arctic permafrost thaw in near-real time

Scientists are using artificial intelligence and satellite imagery to track the thawing of Arctic permafrost in near-real time. As reported by The Conversation (US), the team monitors the appearance and sudden disappearance of millions of thermokarst ponds, which act as surface indicators for melting ice-rich ground. This data is being hosted on an interactive website to help Arctic residents identify safer building sites and avoid areas prone to land collapse. In northwestern Alaska alone, researchers found that roughly thirty more lakes drained during June and July of twenty twenty-six.

Listen to this story

Hear this and more stories in a personalized audio briefing.

Open The Chonkerton