Articles | Volume 15, issue 7
https://doi.org/10.5194/tc-15-3377-2021
https://doi.org/10.5194/tc-15-3377-2021
Research article
 | 
21 Jul 2021
Research article |  | 21 Jul 2021

Modelling steady states and the transient response of debris-covered glaciers

James C. Ferguson and Andreas Vieli

Model code and software

DEBISO (DEBris Ice SOlver) James C. Ferguson https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.4546678

Video supplement

Retreat of debris-covered glacier James C. Ferguson https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.4546684

Retreat of a debris-covered glacier with terminal cryokarst James C. Ferguson https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.4546692

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Short summary
Debris-covered glaciers have a greater extent than their debris-free counterparts due to insulation from the debris cover. However, the transient response to climate change remains poorly understood. We use a numerical model that couples ice dynamics and debris transport and varies the climate signal. We find that debris cover delays the transient response, especially for the extent. However, adding cryokarst features near the terminus greatly enhances the response.