Arctic Sea Ice Extent is Third Lowest on Record - NASA

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24 Oct Posted by eco

U.S. satellite measurements show Arctic sea ice extent in 2009 was the third lowest since 1979 when satellite measurements commenced. Analysts noted that the ice area at minimum was an increase from the past two years, but still well below the average for the past 30 years. The four lowest ice extents on record were recorded between 2005 and 2009, with the record minimum in 2007 that was exacerbated by unusual polar winds.

Changes in sea ice cover can lead to circulation changes not just in the Arctic Ocean, but also in the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, which will lead to changes in present climate noted Josefino Comiso, a sea ice expert at NASA Goddard.