Arctic Sea Ice Near Record Low at Winter Peak, Scientists Say

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Arctic sea ice likely reached its maximum extent for the year on March 15, tying for the lowest level ever recorded, according to researchers at the National Snow and Ice Data Center at the University of Colorado Boulder.

Scientists reported the ice cover peaked at 14.29 million square kilometres, just below last year’s record of 14.31 million square kilometres. The two years are considered statistically tied for the lowest maximum in the 48-year satellite record, as values within 40,000 square kilometres fall within the margin of similarity.

Data and imagery from NASA show the Arctic ice extent at similarly low levels in mid-March, reinforcing concerns about long-term trends.

NSIDC senior research scientist Walt Meier said the near-record low “gives a head start to the spring and summer melt season,” noting that while individual years may vary, the broader pattern is clear.

“In the context of the significant downward trend that we’ve observed since 1979, it reinforces the dramatic change to Arctic sea ice throughout all seasons,” Meier said.