A new study suggests that the Arctic could experience its first day without ice as early as 2027. The researchers used over 300 computer simulations to predict when this milestone would occur. According to the study, an “ice-free” day is defined as a period with less than one million square kilometers of sea ice.
The team found that extreme weather events, such as unusually warm falls and winters, could cause significant melting of sea ice. If these conditions persist for three years or more, the first ice-free day could occur in late summer. The researchers warn that this could have severe consequences, including increased global temperatures, as less reflective ice absorbs more heat from the sun.
However, the study’s authors also note that reducing greenhouse gas emissions can postpone the ice-free timeline. The findings are considered ominous, but they highlight the importance of taking action to mitigate climate change. As one co-author stated, “Any reductions in emissions would help preserve sea ice.”
Source: https://thehill.com/policy/energy-environment/5020247-arctic-ice-free-day-study