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Definition:
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A term frequently used in climate model applications to refer to permafrost at depths close to the ground surface (typically down to 3.5 m). In modelling studies, near-surface permafrost is usually diagnosed from 20 or 30 year climate averages, which is different from the conventional definition of permafrost. Disappearance of near-surface permafrost in a location does not preclude the longer-term persistence of permafrost at greater depth. See also Active layer, Frozen ground and Thermokarst.
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