We studied snow processes in the accumulation area of Mera Glacier (Central Himalaya, Nepal) by deploying a cosmic ray counting sensor that allows to track the evolution of the snow water equivalent. We suspect significant surface melting, water percolation and refreezing within the snowpack, that might be missed by traditional mass balance surveys.

Mechanical damage to stalagmites is commonly observed in mid-latitude caves. In this study we investigate ice flow along the cave bed as a possible mechanism for stalagmite damage. Utilizing models which simulate forces created by ice flow we study the structural integrity of different stalagmite geometries. Our results suggest that structural failure of stalagmites caused by ice flow is possible, albeit unlikely.

The RADIX optical dust logger is part of the exploratory 20-mm drilling system of the University of Bern. The logger is inserted into the borehole after drilling. The temperature, inclination and compass sensors were successfully tested, but not the dust sensor, because no RADIX hole reached down to the required bubble-free ice. In June 2023, we tested the logger with an adapter for the large East GRIP deep borehole. An excellent dust record was obtained for the Late Glacial/Holocene.

As communities try to adapt to climate change, they look for “actionable science” that can inform decision-making. There are risks in relying on novel results that are not yet accepted by the science community. We propose a practical criterion for determining which scientific claims are actionable. We show how premature acceptance of sea-level rise predictions can lead to confusion and backtracking, and we suggest best practices for communication between scientists and adaptation planners.