Because the Thwaites Glacier sits on a reverse-slope bed, where the ocean floor dips inland, once retreat begins it is likely to progress toward irreversible collapse. The glacier’s total mass is sufficient to raise sea levels by about 65 centimeters, and previous numerical models estimate that the baseline of the ice sheet and shelf will retreat at a rate of nearly 1 kilometer per year over the next 40 years.
I recall reading one study saying that as glaciers melt, water ends up pooling under them and acting as lubricant. So, it’s possible that the whole thing could just end up sliding into the ocean all at once leading to a dramatic sea level rise overnight.
tldr
I recall reading one study saying that as glaciers melt, water ends up pooling under them and acting as lubricant. So, it’s possible that the whole thing could just end up sliding into the ocean all at once leading to a dramatic sea level rise overnight.