A new study reveals Antarctica has lost about 12,820 square kilometres of ice over the past 30 years, roughly the size of ten Los Angeles cities. Satellite data from 1996–2026 show glaciers, especially in West Antarctica near the Amundsen Sea, are retreating about 442 km² per year. While 77% of the coastline remains stable, warming oceans threaten future ice loss

Antarctica’s changing ice
A recent scientific study shows that Antarctica has lost a large amount of ice over the past thirty years. Using satellite data from 1996 to 2026, researchers tracked how the Antarctic ice sheet has changed over time. Their findings indicate that the continent has lost about 12,820 square kilometers of ice. As the article explains, Antarctica contains enough ice to raise sea levels significantly if large sections were destabilized.

Understanding the grounding line
The research focused on the “grounding line,” the area where ice resting on land begins to float as it reaches the ocean. Scientists monitor this line to determine whether glaciers are advancing or retreating. According to the study, Antarctica’s ice has been retreating by about 442 square kilometers each year on average. Changes at the grounding line help researchers understand how ocean temperatures and other factors affect glacier movement.

Major losses in West Antarctica
The most significant ice loss occurred in West Antarctica, especially near the Amundsen Sea. Large glaciers such as Pine Island and Thwaites have retreated several kilometers over the past decades. These glaciers are considered vulnerable areas of the Antarctic ice sheet because warming ocean water can accelerate melting and glacier retreat.

Some areas remain stable
Despite the ice loss, the study found that “approximately 77% of Antarctica’s coastline has remained relatively stable.” Many of these stable regions are located in East Antarctica, where the ice sheet rests on more supportive bedrock. However, scientists warn that even these areas could become vulnerable if ocean temperatures continue to rise.

Global importance of the findings
The research highlights why monitoring Antarctica is important for understanding future sea-level rise. As glaciers retreat and ice shelves thin, coastal areas around the world may face greater flooding risks. Scientists emphasize that continued observation and climate action are essential to better understand and reduce the long-term effects of global warming.