Scientist voices are growing louder about the risks posed by the Thwaites Glacier in Antarctica, called the ‘Doomsday Glacier,’ which could cause catastrophic sea level rises if it collapses. Rising temperatures connected to climate change put this massive glacier at risk, causing concern worldwide.
Holding enough ice to raise sea levels over two feet, Thwaites functions as a “cork” keeping back enormous ice sheets. Its collapse could flood coastal cities, including London, New York, and Bangkok, affecting millions.
Recent studies by the International Thwaites Glacier Collaboration highlight ‘hidden lakes’ beneath the glacier that accelerate melting. According to their 2025 report, the glacier could rapidly lose stability and potentially collapse within the next two centuries.
“This lake drainage was more enormous than we imagined, and it greatly speeds up the glacier’s shrinking,” said Professor Noel Gourmelen. The increased outflow of water under the ice pushes the glacier toward faster melting.
The Southern Hemisphere’s 2025 heat wave has intensified concerns as warmer conditions worsen glacier retreat. Dr. Alastair Graham from the University of South Florida warns that if Thwaites breaks apart, a sea level rise of roughly 65 centimeters would follow, drastically affecting coastal areas.
This urgent research underscores the global threat that ice melt from Antarctica poses to cities thousands of miles away, reminding us of our shared responsibility to address climate change.
