Arctic permafrost now melting at levels not expected until 2090

https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/climate-change-breakdown-arctic-frost-thawing-canada-environment-a8959056.html?fbclid=IwAR3TltNXgQ0xVZRKHbFpUckVi8MWdXqWuktCnJQ1M1lJE95chHmRXidR9QU

Alessio Perrone
June 15, 2019

Permafrost hs begun thawing in the Canadian Arctic more than 70 years early because of climate change, according to new research.

A "series of anomalously warm summers” has dramatically accelerated melting rates at three sites despite average annual ground temperatures remaining low. Ponds and hillocks have formed as a result.

It had been thought that the permafrost - ground that remains frozen for at least two years - would remain until at least 2090.

But the study found thawing levels were above 150 to 240 per cent above historic levels.

Researchers called this a “truly remarkable amount".

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When permafrost thaws, it releases carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases stored in or beneath it into the atmosphere.

There in turn, cause temperatures to rise and create a perpetual cycle where more permafrost melts.