West Antarctic Ice Sheet (WAIS)

The West Antarctic Ice Sheet (WAIS) is a massive ice structure located in West Antarctica, composed of thick ice covering an area about the size of Texas. It plays a crucial role in global sea levels. Scientists are concerned about WAIS because it's particularly vulnerable to climate change; if it melts significantly, it could raise sea levels by several meters, affecting coastal communities worldwide. Research indicates that warming ocean waters are eroding its ice from below, which may lead to faster melting in the future. Understanding WAIS is vital for predicting future climate impacts.