Antarctic Sea Ice Hit Record 2022 Collapse After 2016 Wind and Current Shift

1 articles · Updated · GMA News Online · May 22

A record collapse in Antarctic sea ice in 2022 followed a brief rebound in 2020 and 2021, marking a sharp reversal after scientists were already alarmed by major melting in 2015.
Scientists traced the downturn to 2016 changes in wind patterns and ocean currents that suppressed new ice formation by mixing cold surface freshwater with warmer, saltier deep water.
That loss matters beyond Antarctica: sea ice helps drive global ocean circulation, reflects solar heat back into space, and shields ice shelves from waves that can accelerate sea-level rise.
Australian Antarctic Division Chief Scientist Naerilie Abram said the ice has only a slim chance of recovering because heat stored in the ocean is difficult to remove and the ocean will keep absorbing more.