Thunder Glacier (Mount Baker) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Thunder Glacier |
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 Thunder Glacier
Location in Washington (state)
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| Type | Mountain glacier |
| Coordinates | 48°46′25″N 121°51′47″W / 48.77361°N 121.86306°W |
| Length | .90 mi (1.45 km) |
| Terminus | Talus/Icefall |
| Status | Retreating |
Thunder Glacier is a large ice mass found on the western side of Mount Baker. Mount Baker is a big volcano located in the North Cascades mountain range. This range is in the U.S. state of Washington, USA. The glacier flows downhill towards the west. It is found on the northern part of an area known as the Black Buttes.
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What is Thunder Glacier?
Thunder Glacier is a type of glacier called a mountain glacier. This means it forms in high mountain areas. It is made of snow that has fallen over many years and turned into thick ice. This ice then slowly moves down the mountain. Thunder Glacier is about 0.90 miles long.
Where is Thunder Glacier Located?
Thunder Glacier is located in Whatcom County, Washington. This county is in the northwestern part of Washington state. The glacier sits on the slopes of Mount Baker. Mount Baker is a well-known peak in the North Cascades. The North Cascades are famous for their rugged mountains and many glaciers.
How Do Glaciers Form?
Glaciers like Thunder Glacier start as regular snow. When more snow falls in winter than melts in summer, it begins to pile up. Over time, the weight of the new snow presses down on the old snow. This pressure squeezes the snow crystals together. Eventually, the snow turns into a very dense, hard ice called glacial ice. Once the ice becomes thick enough, gravity causes it to slowly flow downhill. This slow movement carves out valleys and shapes the landscape.
Why Are Glaciers Important?
Glaciers are very important for several reasons. They store a lot of fresh water. When the ice melts slowly during warmer months, it provides water for rivers and streams. This water is used by people, animals, and plants. Glaciers also act like giant thermometers. Scientists study them to understand how Earth's climate is changing. When glaciers shrink, it tells us that temperatures might be getting warmer.
Thunder Glacier is Retreating
Scientists have observed that Thunder Glacier is currently retreating. This means the glacier is getting smaller. It is melting faster than new snow can build it up. Many glaciers around the world are retreating. This is often a sign of a warming climate. Studying glaciers like Thunder Glacier helps scientists learn more about our planet's health.
