Satellite data reveals near-total disintegration as climate concerns mount

Satellite images have confirmed that Antarctica’s Conger ice shelf has completely collapsed amid record-breaking temperature spikes, with “virtually all” of the remaining ice now lost, scientists report.

The dramatic event occurred last week in the Wilkes Land region, with the resulting iceberg measuring approximately 1,200 square kilometres — nearly equivalent to the size of Rome. This marks the latest indication of rapid environmental change as temperatures in the region soared to 4°C above average, setting new records.

The collapse follows another ice shelf that broke off just the week before, adding to growing concerns over the melting rate in both the Arctic and Antarctic regions. Climate experts warn that it is unusual to observe such rapid warming and melting simultaneously at both poles.

According to the US National Ice Centre, the collapse of the Conger ice shelf took place on Thursday last week. The event coincided with broader warming trends, with the Antarctic region recording a 4.8°C increase compared to baseline temperatures from 1979 to 2000, as per the University of Maine’s Climate Reanalyser data.

Walt Meier, an ice scientist with the National Snow and Ice Data Centre in Colorado, described this level of warming as highly concerning, given that it pushes an already elevated climate average even further.

Earlier this year, Antarctic sea ice extent reached a record low, at just 830,000 square miles — nearly 30 per cent below the historical average. This continuing trend highlights the escalating effects of climate change and the urgent need for global mitigation efforts.