South Sawyer Glacier

The South Sawyer Glacier is located in the Tracy Arm fjord in southeast Alaska, a popular destination for cruise ship excursions. In August 2025, a massive rockslide near the glacier's terminus triggered the world's second-tallest recorded tsunami, reaching an astonishing 481 meters. This event has significant implications for the region, highlighting the increasing risks associated with glacier retreat and coastal rockslides, which are exacerbated by the climate crisis. Following the incident, cruise companies have begun avoiding the popular Tracy Arm excursion due to safety concerns. The event serves as a stark warning about the potential dangers posed by geological instability in glacial environments and underscores the need for ongoing scientific monitoring and risk assessment in these rapidly changing landscapes.