Global Permafrost Zonation (GTN-P)
Quick answer: The GTN-P Global Permafrost Zonation provides permafrost extent mapping for the Northern Hemisphere classified into continuous to isolated zones at ~1km resolution.
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Format
ESRI Grid / Shapefile
Geometry
Polygon / Raster (permafrost zones)
Coverage
Northern Hemisphere
Resolution
~1km
About this dataset
Global permafrost distribution map showing extent and temperature zones from the Global Terrestrial Network for Permafrost.
The Global Permafrost Zonation dataset from the Global Terrestrial Network for Permafrost (GTN-P) provides maps of permafrost extent across the Northern Hemisphere. It classifies permafrost into continuous, discontinuous, sporadic, and isolated zones based on ground temperature measurements and modeling, at approximately 1km resolution.
How to download
- 1 Open the GTN-P or NSIDC permafrost data page.
- 2 Select the permafrost zonation product.
- 3 Download the raster or shapefile for your area of interest.
- 4 Open in QGIS and overlay with temperature and land cover for analysis.
FAQ
What permafrost zones are mapped?
The dataset classifies permafrost into continuous (90-100%), discontinuous (50-90%), sporadic (10-50%), and isolated (0-10%) zones.
How is permafrost data relevant to GIS?
Permafrost data is critical for Arctic infrastructure planning, climate change impact assessment, and understanding carbon release from thawing permafrost.