Arctic sea ice
Coverage of Arctic sea ice in the Nexus archive.
- State of the climate: Rapidly developing El Niño raises chance of record-warm 2026
A rapidly intensifying El Niño event in the tropical Pacific has increased the chance of 2026 setting a global temperature record to 35%, up from 19% in April. The first half of 2026 was the third-warmest on record, with May and June 2026 being the second-warmest months amid strong El Niño conditions. Projections suggest 2027 could surpass 2026 as the warmest year, reaching around 1.7°C above pre-industrial levels.
- Arctic sea ice plunges to a record low: Study reveals how 'pause' in melting has ended - with 'exceptionally' diminished levels this year
Arctic sea ice has reached a record low this year, ending a previous pause in melting. The study highlights 'exceptionally' diminished levels compared to prior years.
- Slowdown in Arctic ice melt ends after largest winter decline on record
A previously recorded slowdown in Arctic sea ice decline has ended, with the largest year-to-year wintertime reduction ever recorded. A study found the slower reduction over the past 20 years was 'temporary rather than sustained', and no statistically significant decline was recorded between 2005 and 2024.
- How scientists are using underwater drones to thicken rapidly melting Arctic ice
Scientists are using underwater drones in the Arctic to slow the melting of sea ice, with their efforts showing positive results.
- Geoengineering can thicken Arctic sea ice, but for how long?
Two companies are using geoengineering to thicken Arctic sea ice by pumping water onto it and freezing it. Only one trial found this method delayed summer melting.