Glacier‐Atmosphere Interactions and Feedbacks in High‐Mountain Regions ‐ A Review

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Authors: Tobias Sauter, B. W. Brock, Emily Collier, Brigitta Goger, A. R. Groos, K. F. Haualand, R. Mott, Lindsey Nicholson, Rainer Prinz, T. E. Shaw, Ivana Stiperski, A. Georgi
+6 more M. Haugeneder, A. Mandal, Dylan Reynolds, Manuel Saigger, J. E. Sicart, Annelies Voordendag
Cited by: 4
References: 230

Abstract

Abstract Mountain glaciers are among the natural systems most vulnerable to climate change. However, their interactions with the atmosphere are complex and not fully understood. These interactions can trigger rapid adjustments and climate feedbacks that either amplify or attenuate atmospheric signals, influencing both glacier response and large‐scale atmospheric circulation. Observing this functional coupling in nature is challenging because the key processes occur over a wide range of spatial and temporal scales. However, recent advances in observational techniques and modeling have provided new insights into these interactions. In this review, we summarize the current state of knowledge on glacier‐atmosphere interactions in high‐mountain regions at different scales, and highlight recent advances in observational and numerical modeling. We also highlight important knowledge gaps and outline future research directions to improve the prediction of glacier change in a warming world.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Cryospheric studies and observations Climate change and permafrost Arctic and Antarctic ice dynamics

Publication details

Journal / source
Reviews of Geophysics
Publisher
American Geophysical Union (AGU)
Volume
64
Issue
1
Publication date
5 January 2026
Language
EN