posted on 2023-05-19, 22:29authored byWebster, M, Gerland, S, Holland, M, Hunke, E, Kwok, R, Lecomte, O, Robert MassomRobert Massom, Perovich, D, Sturm, M
Snow is the most reflective, and also the most insulative, natural material on Earth. Consequently, it is an integral part of the sea-ice and climate systems. However, the spatial and temporal heterogeneities of snow pose challenges for observing, understanding and modelling those systems under anthropogenic warming. Here, we survey the snow–ice system, then provide recommendations for overcoming present challenges. These include: collecting process-oriented observations for model diagnostics and understanding snow–ice feedbacks, and improving our remote sensing capabilities of snow for monitoring large-scale changes in snow on sea ice. These efforts could be achieved through stronger coordination between the observational, remote sensing and modelling communities, and would pay dividends through distinct improvements in predictions of polar environments.
History
Publication title
Nature Climate Change
Volume
8
Issue
11
Pagination
946-953
ISSN
1758-678X
Department/School
Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies
Publisher
Nature Publishing Group
Place of publication
United Kingdom
Rights statement
Copyright 2018 Springer Nature Limited
Repository Status
Restricted
Socio-economic Objectives
Climate variability (excl. social impacts); Understanding climate change not elsewhere classified; Expanding knowledge in the physical sciences