Effects of topographic and meteorological parameters on the surface area loss of ice aprons in the Mont Blanc massif (European Alps)

Abstract. Ice aprons (IAs) are part of the critical components Alpine cryosphere. As a result changing climate over past few decades, deglaciation has resulted in surface decrease IAs, which not yet been documented, except for specific examples. In this study, we quantify effects change on IAs since mid-20th century Mont Blanc massif (western European Alps). We then evaluate role meteorological parameters and local topography behaviour IAs. precisely mapped areas 200 using high-resolution aerial satellite photographs from 1952, 2001, 2012 2019. From latter inventory, area present individual ranges 0.001 to 0.04 km2. have lost their 70 years, with an alarming increase early 2000s. The total area, 7.93 km2 was reduced 5.91 2001 (−25.5 %) before collapsing 4.21 2019 (−47 % 1952). performed regression analysis temperature precipitation proxies better understand IA variations. found strong correlation between both relative loss indicating significant influence evolution also evaluated topographic factors loss. At regional scale, like direct solar radiation elevation while others curvature, slope size seem be rather important scale.