The World’s Largest Iceberg Is on the Move

The iceberg is named A23a.

The World’s Largest Iceberg Is on the Move

The A23a iceberg. Photo by Felip A. Cruz / Twitter.

Which is the world’s largest iceberg?

The world’s biggest iceberg is called A23a. It broke away from the Antarctic shore in 1986. After that, it got stuck in the Weddell Sea and turned into an ice island. Now, after being stuck on the ocean floor for many years, it's starting to move. This iceberg is really big.

Why has it started moving?
Satellite image of the A23a iceberg. Photo by BBC.

Recent satellite images showed the iceberg moving north of the Antarctic Peninsula. Strong winds and currents are pushing it along. Scientists are keeping a close eye on where it's headed.

A scientist from the British Antarctic Survey mentioned that the iceberg has been drifting for about a year, and now it seems to be moving faster. The iceberg may have gotten smaller and broken free as it had been stuck in the Weddell Sea since 1986.

Where is the iceberg moving?
Movement of the A23a iceberg. Photo by Copernicus EU.

We don't know yet where A23a will go. Some reports say it will float through a place called 'Iceberg Alley.' Its path will affect the ocean floor and the region. Icebergs also help mix seawater, bringing up nutrients and releasing dust, which helps phytoplankton grow.

A23a might also get stuck at South Georgia Island in the South Atlantic Ocean. If this happens, it will impact the island's animals. Millions of seals, penguins, and seagulls use the island to have babies and find food. They could be affected if the iceberg gets stuck there.

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