Mont Blanc Grows in Volume from 2003 as Reported by Experts
New elaborate GPS readings acquired on the 14-15th September have proven that Monte Bianco measures 4810.4 metres. Mount Blanc is covered by a thick ice cap which has increased by 2.7 metres in not even 2 yrs however more unexpectedly the bulk of the ice has all but grown twofold . At least that is as reported by the professionals.
The bulk of snow and ice was measured for the inaugural time in 2003. It amounted to 14400 cubic metres above 4760 metres. It equaled only 13600 cubic meters in 2004 possibly due to the heat wave with plus temperature as high as 4800 meters elevation. However the ice has almost doubled since then and today numbers 24000 cubic metres.
Chamonix village’s renowned near by weather forecaster Elizabeth Hosler explained the increment in the mass of the ice cap is one of the counter intuitive consequences of global warming: Snow hasn’t grown overall in the French Alps simply with global warming we are having more warm westerly air currents that bring in rainfall at lower altitudes however during summer this results in significant snowfall that falls at higher altitude than 3900 meters elevation hence the mass bulk of the ice cap is rising. Counterpoint this to the state of affairs during wintertime when the snow crystals are extremely cold and are transported by the wind so don’t rest on the peak.
Chamonix village is not only infamous for Monte Bianco it is also a world renowned skiing field and alpinism mecca with many holiday deals and luxury chalets to be rented. And at merely one hour from Geneva airport it is unbeatable for a short break.
