Abstract
AbstractSeasonal variability in the Greenland Ice Sheet's (GrIS) sliding speed is regulated by the response of the subglacial drainage system to meltwater inputs. However, the importance of channelization relative to the dewatering of isolated cavities in controlling seasonal ice deceleration remains unsolved. Using ice motion, moulin hydraulic head, and glaciohydraulic tremor measurements, we show the passing of a subglacial floodwave triggered by upglacier supraglacial lake drainages slowed sliding to wintertime background speeds without increasing the hydraulic capacity of the moulin‐connected drainage system. We interpret these results to reflect an increase in basal traction caused by the dewatering of isolated cavities. These results suggest the dewatering of isolated parts of the subglacial drainage system play a key role in driving seasonal slowdowns on the GrIS.
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