A rift of the size of Grand Canyon discovered under Antarctic ice sheet

A rift of the size of the Grand Canyon has been discovered under the Antarctic ice sheet. According to the scientists the rift is contributing to ice melt and a consequent rise in the sea level. The rift is around 1.5 kms deep, 10 kms wide and 100 kms long.
Scientist believe a melting West Antarctic Ice Sheet is the cause for about 10 % of climate-change-induced sea level rise, which if unstopped may cause flood in many coastal cities within a few generations.
The ice sheet which is 4 kms thick that covers the land surface and expands into the sea, is melting faster than any other part of Antarctica.

Month: Current Affairs - July, 2012