Iceberg sightings, shapes and management techniques for offshore Newfoundland and Labrador: Historical data and future applications

Abstract

For safe and efficient operations in the iceberg-infested waters offshore eastern Canada, accurate information on icebergs is needed. Databases on iceberg sightings, shapes and management techniques have been developed in order to bring all relevant iceberg information into one repository. Iceberg sightings have been recorded offshore Newfoundland and Labrador since the 1600s. Sighting methods, locations, yearly variability and uncertainties are discussed. In more recent times, detailed 2D and 3D measurements have been made of iceberg geometries, which are useful for structural load calculations. Techniques to deflect iceberg drift from critical offshore locations have also evolved over the past 40 years. The various methods that have been used for iceberg management are discussed, as well as the factors that affect their success rates. Relationships between historical iceberg populations and sea ice can be used to forecast iceberg severity in future seasons; updated correlations have been made between sea ice coverage and iceberg severity.