Description
As the ice sheet advances then recharge may occur from the meltwater formed under pressure at the base of the ice sheet. In the case of a static or retreating ice sheet, this water may escape as sub-glacial rivers between the ice and ground. However, in the case of an advancing ice sheet a sealed front may be created by the ice sheet advancing over permafrost so that the meltwater is forced downward into the underlying rock. Glacial loading/unloading of Opalinus Clay may occur due to advancing/retreating ice sheets.
OPA Category
Category as used in the OPA assessment
Climatic processes and events
OPA Number
Number as used in the OPA assessment
2.05
NEA V1 IFEP Reference(s)
Related IFEPs from the NEA V1 IFEP list from 1999
1.3.05, 1.3.07