The world’s largest iceberg, named A23a, measuring nearly 4,000 square kilometers (1,550 square miles) and twice the size of Greater London, has commenced a journey northward after three decades of being stuck to the Antarctic ocean floor. Expedition leader Ian Strachan described the iceberg as a “true behemoth,” and the ship approaching it experienced waves up to four meters high that broke off chunks and collapsed some arches. The iceberg is currently drifting between Elephant Island and the South Orkney Islands.
A23a first broke off the Antarctic coast in 1986 and became stuck to the ocean floor. It broke free in late 2023 and is now floating between the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Orkney Islands. The iceberg is estimated to contain around one trillion tonnes of fresh water, which is likely to melt off into the ocean along its journey. Its thickness reaches up to 400 meters in some places.
The drifting iceberg is part of a natural process, but its journey may pose concerns for wildlife and navigation. It is anticipated to follow a path similar to other massive icebergs, moving northeast towards the island of South Georgia. There is a slight concern that if the iceberg blocks the island, it could impact wildlife’s ability to forage. However, experts expect the iceberg to continue northward, eventually melting away in warmer waters.
The A23a iceberg is part of a broader context of changing ice dynamics in Antarctica, with its recent release prompting scientific interest and observations from research vessels in the region. The event highlights the ongoing effects of climate change on polar ice and the potential consequences for ecosystems and human activities in the affected regions.
