The problem seems to be largely linked to the warm water underneath the cool water at the grounding line. This water's movement seems to be affected by intensif

The problem seems to be largely linked to the warm water underneath the cool water at the grounding line. This water's movement seems to be affected by intensifying winds (see OP's link). [1] below gives a little more context and a short video that makes things a little more clear. Perhaps once the ice frees itself from the land mass, it remains mostly in tact in the colder water? IANAE. [1] http://www.nbcnews.com/science/environment/west-antarctic-ice-sheets-collapse-triggers-sea-level-warning-n103221 http://www.nbcnews.com/science/environment/west-antarctic-ic...