Arctic sea ice reaches near-record low winter peak

Arctic winter sea ice peaked at about 5.52 million square miles, roughly 525,000 square miles below the 1981–2010 average, while many regions worldwide reported unusually high temperatures and numerous record highs.

Arctic sea ice reached a smaller winter peak this year than is typical, according to measurements cited by the National Snow and Ice Data Center. The peak was measured at 5.52 million square miles, a figure the center regards as essentially tied with last year's 5.53 million. That area is about 525,000 square miles below the 1981 to 2010 winter average. At the same time, meteorologists and weather historians reported widespread record high temperatures in many regions around the world. Key details: - The winter maximum was measured at 5.52 million square miles; the National Snow and Ice Data Center considers that value essentially tied with last year's 5.53 million square miles. - The measured peak is about 525,000 square miles below the 1981–2010 winter average, a deficit roughly twice the size of Texas. - Scientists described the winter maximum as consistent with a steady long-term decline in Arctic winter ice and noted it gives the region a head start on the summer melt season. - Observers emphasized that melting Arctic sea ice does not directly contribute to global sea level rise. Summary: Scientists say the smaller winter maximum is consistent with longer-term warming trends and may affect the upcoming summer melt season and broader atmospheric patterns. Undetermined at this time.