Climate Induced Twentieth-Century Glacier Fluctuations in Southeast Iceland Veðurlagselvdar jøkulbroytingar í tjúgundu øld á Suðurlandinum í Islandi

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Published Jan 1, 1998
Tom Bradwell

Abstract

This paper examines the link between the recession of Virkisjokull-Falljokull, an outlet glacier from the Óraefajokull ice-cap in Iceland, and variations in mean air temperature. The glacier margin has fluctuated in response to climatic change over the past one-hundred and twenty years. Recession of the ice has revealed an extensive area of proglacial foreland. Discrete, arcuate ridges and 'hummocky' ablation moraine are preserved on the foreland reflecting the pattern of ice-front fluctuations. Approximate relative dating of these features has been achieved using lichenometric data combined with geomorphic relationships observed in the field. Historical documentation and aerial photography have been used to construct the chronology for the latter half of the century. The glacier has not retreated in a uniform manner since the end of the 'Little Ice Age' cold phase. Recession of the ice-front has been interrupted by re-advance events on various scales. It is suggested that the twentieth century pattern of ice-marginal fluctuations corresponds with multi-annual trends of mean air temperature.
Warmer periods resulting in rapid recession during the 1900's, 1940's and early 1970's; colder spells being responsible for re-advances in the 1920's, 1950's and mid to late 1970's. A lag in the response of the ice margin to temperature variation is seen to be approximately seven to nine years. 

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Section
Natural Sciences