The dynamics of the ice sheet on the northeastern part of the central Siberian Plateau in the late Pleistocene

Abstract

The widespread occurrence of glacial deposits on the Anabar Plateau and adjacent areas is well established. Glacial forms, both erosional and depositional, have been identified, and have allowed the authors to reconstruct the extent and dynamics of the Late Pleistocene ice sheet in this region. Evidence of four active glacial lobes advancing from the NW is presented. These are marked by systems of concentric, arcuate marginal glacial formations which mainly coincide with the topographic depressions in the Trans‐Anabar region. Specific topographical forms typical of stagnant and dead ice are widespread on the Anabar Plateau. The distribution of glacial relief forms provides evidence of the disintegration of a major ice sheet with its center located well to the north of the field area and most probably on the Kara Sea shelf. During one of the deglaciation phases the Anabar Plateau became an obstacle to glacier movement. The ice on the uplands was becoming stagnant while ice streams flowing into the depressions left well‐marked marginal glacial formations. The proposed reconstruction is confirmed by data on transport of glacial erratics.