00:00Scientists have uncovered evidence of an ancient climate tipping point that could offer clues
00:05about modern warming. The event happened about 304 million years ago. During the late Paleozoic
00:11Ice Age, researchers found signs that rising temperatures caused vast areas of frozen permafrost
00:17to thaw. That thawing may have released large amounts of methane, a powerful heat-trapping
00:22gas. The extra methane appears to have intensified the warming, creating a powerful climate
00:27feedback. Scientists estimate global sea surface temperatures eventually increased by more
00:33than 7 degrees Celsius. The ancient warming unfolded over tens of thousands of years.
00:38By comparison, modern sea surface temperatures have risen by nearly 1 degree Celsius in just
00:44a century. Researchers say the ancient episode may have been triggered by volcanic activity
00:49and changes in Earth's orbit. The study involved University of Cincinnati professor Thomas Algeo
00:55and an international research team. Scientists say thawing permafrost today could also release
01:01stored carbon and potentially amplify warming. The ancient climate event provides a rare window
01:06into how small changes can trigger much larger shifts on Earth. Disclosure, this video contains
01:12stock footage and content created or enhanced using AI-assisted tools.
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