Iceberg A23a , the largest and oldest in the world , began its journey towards the South Atlantic after being immobilized for more than 30 years in the Weddell Sea .
This colossal block of ice, which has an area of about 3,900 square kilometers and weighs approximately one billion tons, has broken free from its position north of the South Orkney Islands , where it had been trapped due to an oceanic phenomenon called the Taylor Column .
The A23a was detached from the platform in 1986 . Filchner Ice Cap and has been static ever since. Laura Taylor , a biochemist with the British Antarctic Survey (BAS) BIOPOLE project, said these giant icebergs can enrich the waters they pass through by releasing essential nutrients such as iron , encouraging the flourishing of marine life .
However, this mobility also poses a number of risks to local fauna , including seals , penguins and various seabirds , by disturbing their natural habitats and food sources, generating interference with reproduction and feeding .
The iceberg is heading towards the coast of South Georgia , driven by the Antarctic Circumpolar Current . As it approaches warmer waters , it is likely to break up into smaller pieces, accelerating its melting .
According to recent reports, 2023 and 2024 have been years marked by sea ice anomalies in Antarctica , with below-average concentration levels in several key areas.
Lucas Ruiz, a glaciologist at CONICET , warns that what is visible of A23a represents only 10% of its totality , while the rest is under water.
The situation has led the Argentine Naval Prefecture (PNA) to implement constant surveillance measures. The force has issued a statement on the detection of the iceberg and is monitoring its movement , now located 250.5 nautical miles southwest of the South Georgia Islands.
The PNA reportedly employs advanced technology , including satellite imagery and positioning systems, to ensure effective control over maritime operations .
Authorities have urged boaters to be cautious in the vicinity of A23a and avoid unnecessary approaches , in order to minimise any risk .
The advance of the ice sheet has sparked debate about the impacts of climate change on Antarctica and marine ecosystems . Researchers have pointed to the presence of “ unprecedented anomalies ” in the region, such as anomalous temperatures and accelerated melting rates .
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