A Transformation Like No Other

In a remarkable display of nature's changing face, a melting glacier in southeastern Alaska has unveiled a brand-new island amidst a rapidly expanding lake, as captured by stunning NASA satellite images.

Meet Prow Knob: The New Island

This newly formed 2-square-mile island, known as Prow Knob, was once cloaked by the massive Alsek Glacier. As the glacier continues its retreat, the once frozen terrain is now submerged under meltwater, creating the picturesque Alsek Lake.

The Big Reveal

This summer marked a significant turning point. Satellites observed Prow Knob for the first time, stranded as an island within the vast Alsek Lake—a visual change that underscores the impact of climate change on our planet.

A Historical Perspective

Satellites from NASA have been chronicling this transformation since 1984 when Landsat 5 captured images showing Prow Knob's western edge nearly touching the lake. Over the decades, the Alsek Glacier and the adjacent Grand Plateau Glacier have both retreated significantly, leading to a dramatic rise in the size of Alsek Lake.

The Numbers Don't Lie

Since 1984, the glaciers have retreated by over 3 miles, causing the Alsek Lake to nearly double in size, growing from approximately 17 square miles to nearly 30 square miles. This change is a stark reminder of the effect of global warming.

Looking Ahead: More Changes on the Horizon

As NASA indicates, even more melting is anticipated in the years to come, especially now that Prow Knob has officially been isolated from the ice. This newly transformed landscape will likely continue to evolve as the climate crisis persists.

A Visual Testament to Climate Change

The emergence of Prow Knob as an island is not just a fascinating geographical shift; it serves as a vivid illustration of how climate change is reshaping our planet's landscapes—altering coastlines and creating new geographies in real-time.