Melting Glaciers Could Set Off Volcanoes in Chain Reaction, Scientists Sound Chilling Alarm

Last Updated:July 08, 2025, 18:32 IST

Ice cover delays volcanic eruptions, allowing magma to build up heat and pressure underground. When released, this leads to far more powerful and destructive explosions

The most significant threat comes from over 100 volcanoes beneath Antarctica, currently covered by thick ice. (Representative/AP)

As global temperatures rise, the melting of glaciers and ice sheets is causing more than just an increase in sea levels. Scientists warn that this marks the beginning of a perilous chain reaction with the potential to affect the entire planet.

Recent international research has discovered that melting ice is intensifying volcanic activity. Pablo Moreno-Yager and his team from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, USA, conducted this research in Chile’s Andes mountains. Their study of the Mocho-Choshuenco volcano revealed that as ice layers diminish, the pressure on the subterranean magma chamber decreases, leading to more explosive eruptions.

The Real Source Of The Danger

Previously, concerns about glacier melt focused on rising sea levels, floods, and climate imbalance. This new research highlights that ice layers play a crucial role in controlling volcanic pressure. When these layers melt, trapped gases and magma are released unchecked, causing significant explosions.

Watch The Video Here

Research on Chilean volcanoes shows that 26,000 to 18,000 years ago, volcanic activity was minimal due to the extensive ice cover. As the ice melted 13,000 years ago, volcanic explosions became more frequent and intense.

The Hidden Threat Beneath Antarctica

The most significant threat comes from over 100 volcanoes beneath Antarctica, currently covered by thick ice. With the ongoing rise in global temperatures, this ice will likely disappear within decades, removing pressure and potentially triggering volcanic eruptions.

If these Antarctic volcanoes become active, the consequences will be dire. Massive amounts of greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide and methane could be released, accelerating global warming.

A Double Threat Beneath Antarctica

Scientists caution that this creates a destructive cycle: global warming melts ice, causing volcanic eruptions, which further increase atmospheric heat. If this cycle is not interrupted, it could spiral out of control.

Furthermore, prolonged prevention of volcanic eruptions due to ice cover allows magma to accumulate deep underground, increasing in temperature and density. When eventually released, it results in more powerful explosions.

The Warning Isn’t Limited To One Nation

Initially thought to be a regional issue, it is now evident that countries like US, New Zealand, Russia, and India’s Himalayan region could face similar threats.

Given the critical importance of understanding this relationship, scientists urge the world to take these findings seriously and invest in further research to mitigate potential disasters.

United States of America (USA)

News world Melting Glaciers Could Set Off Volcanoes in Chain Reaction, Scientists Sound Chilling Alarm