The Antarctic region underwent an abrupt transformation in 2023 as the sea ice cover surrounding the continent crashed for six months straight. This year, scientists are seeing similar trends, with less sea ice recorded than last year. With global temperatures more than 1.5C above pre-industrial levels for extended periods, the warmer Southern Ocean is having a significant impact on sea ice. On September 7, Southern Ocean sea ice covered only 17 million square kilometers, just shy of last year's record low.
Dr. Will Hobbs described last year’s events as outrageous and emphasized that the current situation reflects a dramatic shift in the Antarctic system. He highlighted that we are now witnessing two incredible extreme events in a row. What's different now is the influence of warmer Southern Ocean temperatures, which are severely affecting the sea ice levels. He pointed out that this marks a significant change in patterns that scientists need to closely monitor.
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