Impacts of Thawing Permafrost

In December 2016, a Siberian community faced an anthrax outbreak, traced to thawing permafrost. Permafrost, a frozen earth layer, preserves organic material for millennia. Climate change is causing it to thaw, releasing greenhouse gases and potentially dangerous pathogens. This poses risks like landslides, structural instability, and the resurgence of diseases. The thawing permafrost could accelerate climate change effects globally, impacting millions living near these areas.

What was the cause of the mysterious outbreak in Siberia in December 2016?

• Anthrax

• A chemical spill

• A bacterial infection

• A new virus

What is permafrost?

• A permanently frozen layer of earth

• A type of soil that thaws every summer

• A type of ice found only in Antarctica

• A seasonal weather pattern

How does permafrost act in relation to dead plants and animals?

• It preserves them like a time capsule

• It has no effect on them

• It decomposes them quickly

• It turns them into fossils

What is one consequence of permafrost thawing?

• Increased stability of the land

• Decrease in global temperatures

• Release of greenhouse gases

• Formation of new ice layers

What is a major factor contributing to the thawing of permafrost?

• Human activities increasing atmospheric warmth

• Increased solar activity

• Natural climate cycles

• Decreased volcanic activity

What was the suspected source of the anthrax outbreak in Siberia?

• A laboratory accident

• A contaminated water source

• A thawed reindeer carcass

• A new strain of bacteria

What concerns do scientists have about diseases and thawing permafrost?

• No impact on diseases

• All diseases will be eradicated

• Diseases we thought were controlled may re-emerge

• New diseases will form

How many people live around permafrost areas?

• 10 million

• 20 million

• 50 million

• 35 million

What are some global impacts of melting permafrost?

• Stabilized weather patterns

• Increased heat waves and droughts

• Reduced greenhouse gas emissions

• Decreased sea levels

What is one potential risk of melting permafrost?

• Stabilized ecosystems

• Re-emergence of diseases

• Increased biodiversity

• Improved agricultural conditions