Antarctic sea ice cover is in retreat, after peaking at an all-time maximum recorded extent of 20,139,000 square kilometres on September 20.
Dr Jan Lieser from the Antarctic Climate and Ecosystems Cooperative Research Centre in Hobart said 2014 was the third consecutive year of record sea ice extent in the Antarctic.
“The annual spring thaw has begun, marking the third consecutive year that Antarctic sea ice extent has peaked at a recorded maximum,” Dr Lieser said.
“These changes might appear paradoxical given that the world has warmed in recent decades, but not when we consider some of the other factors driving the formation of Antarctic sea ice.”
“The saltiness of the water, the level of snowfall and the motion of the winds, waves and ocean currents all play a critical role.”
“Wind is a very important factor in sea ice formation, and weather records show that parts of the Antarctic have become windier in recent decades as part of climate change.”
“We also know that the surface water around the Antarctic is becoming less salty, which means that the water can freeze at a higher temperature.”
“While this is happening, the main Antarctic ice sheet over the land has been continuing to shrink rapidly, releasing an additional 100 gigatonnes of fresh water into the ocean each year.”
“The annual advance and retreat of Antarctic sea ice is one of the most critical components in the global climate system, which is why it is very important to understand these processes.”
“As we look to the future, we can be certain that any long-term changes in Antarctic sea ice will have far reaching and complex impacts on our own climate.”
* Comprehensive Antarctic sea ice extent data is compiled and updated daily by Dr Phil Reid (CAWCR/BOM) HERE: http://www.cawcr.gov.au/staff/preid/seaice/sea_ice_table_extent.html
David Reilly, Public Affairs Manager, Antarctic Climate and Ecosystems Cooperative Research Centre (ACE CRC)
