Thermokarst
Thermokarst is a type of landform that occurs in permafrost regions when the ground thaws. This process creates uneven surfaces, including depressions, pits, and mounds, as ice within the soil melts. The melting ice can lead to the collapse of the ground above, resulting in a landscape that appears rugged and irregular.
The formation of thermokarst is often accelerated by climate change, as rising temperatures cause more permafrost to thaw. This can impact local ecosystems, hydrology, and even infrastructure, as the ground becomes unstable. Understanding thermokarst is essential for managing the effects of global warming in affected areas.