Record Low Global Sea Ice Cover Observed in February 2025
February 2025 marked a historic low in global sea ice extent, with temperatures near the North Pole reaching 11 degrees Celsius above average. The Copernicus Climate Change Service reported a combined sea ice cover of 16.04 million square kilometers, with continuing warming due to greenhouse gas emissions. The effects extend to weather patterns and ecosystems, raising concerns over climate change impacts.
In February, the global sea ice cover reached a record low, compounded by exceptional heat that saw temperatures soar 11 degrees Celsius above average near the North Pole, as reported by the Copernicus Climate Change Service. This month marked the third hottest February ever recorded, indicative of the continuing trend of warming driven by greenhouse gas emissions since early 2023.
On February 7, the combined extent of Antarctic and Arctic sea ice dropped to a historic minimum of 16.04 million square kilometers. Samantha Burgess from the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts highlighted that this is part of a disturbing pattern of high temperatures over the last two years, resulting in a significant reduction in sea ice cover at both poles.
The polar regions, particularly sensitive to climate change, are warming at a rate several times faster than the global average. February witnessed an alarming 8 percent decrease in Arctic ice cover compared to the norm, marking the third consecutive month of record lows. Meanwhile, Antarctic ice coverage was observed to be 26 percent below the average for the month, further intensifying concerns about the impacts of climate change.
The retreat of sea ice does not directly affect sea levels, as the ice is already afloat; however, it poses serious threats to global weather patterns, ecosystems, and biodiversity. With a reduction in reflective ice, more solar energy is absorbed by the ocean, exacerbating global warming and leading to a cycle of continued ice melt.
The implications extend beyond environmental impacts, as melting polar ice is also reshaping shipping routes and drawing geopolitical interest. Concerns are mounting for various species that rely on ice for their habitats, including polar bears and seals. Simon Josey, a Professor of Oceanography, expressed alarm over the record low global sea ice extent, warning of potential long-term changes in ice regrowth, particularly in Antarctica.
Human activities, primarily the burning of fossil fuels, contribute significantly to the excess heat trapped in the atmosphere. With sea surface temperatures consistently elevated in recent years, February 2025 recorded a global temperature 1.59 degrees Celsius higher than pre-industrial levels.
Although parts of North America and Eastern Europe experienced cooler temperatures last month, regions such as northern Chile and parts of Australia reported higher averages. Copernicus data revealed that northern areas near the Arctic Circle averaged 4 degrees Celsius above the standard reference period.
Despite expectations for relief after an El Nino warming event, 2024 remains on track to be one of the hottest years on record. The UN’s World Meteorological Organization has characterized the anticipated La Nina phase as weak and likely transient. Since mid-2023, achieving the target of limiting global temperature rise to below 1.5 degrees Celsius appears increasingly challenging.
Copernicus compiles climate data using extensive satellite and observational records that date back several decades, reinforcing the notion that current conditions are among the warmest the planet has experienced in the past 125,000 years.
In summary, February 2025 witnessed a record low in global sea ice coverage due to abnormally high temperatures influenced by greenhouse gas emissions. The unprecedented decreases in both Arctic and Antarctic ice have significant implications for global climate, ecosystems, and biodiversity. This alarming trend raises serious concerns regarding future climate stability and the feasibility of meeting international climate targets set forth in agreements such as the Paris Accord.
Original Source: www.france24.com
