Lots of new snow on the glacier
This winter (2024), we've actually seen more snow on the glaciers and in higher areas, even though the climate is getting warmer. This has several implications for the future of glaciers:
More snow means more mass:
When it snows heavily, the snow accumulates on the glaciers and turns into ice. This can help the glaciers grow for a while, or at least prevent them from melting as quickly.
Snow reflects sunlight:
Technical term: “Albedo effect” Fresh snow is very bright and reflects most of the sunlight back into the sky. This means that less solar heat is absorbed, and the glaciers do not melt as quickly.
Snow protects against heat:
A thick layer of snow can protect the ice beneath it from warm temperatures, acting like a blanket. This causes the ice to melt more slowly.
Now and in the future:
More snow can help the glaciers now, but it depends on how the weather develops this summer. If temperatures continue to rise significantly, the additional snow may not be enough in the long run to stop the glaciers from melting.
