discontinuous permafrost zone

The discontinuous permafrost zone is an area where permafrost, or ground that remains frozen for two or more years, is not continuous. This means there are areas within this zone where permafrost is absent. This zone is found towards the southern boundaries of permafrost regions, where the permafrost becomes less widespread and thinner.1

Permafrost itself is defined by its temperature being below 0°C (32°F) for extended periods. While it is frozen, the moisture within it may not be entirely ice, depending on factors like soil salinity and capillary forces. The active layer is the surface ground that thaws seasonally and refreezes in winter. Permafrost is common in Arctic, subarctic, and Antarctic regions, as well as at high elevations.21