Global sea ice reached record low levels in February

Global sea ice reached a record low in February 2025, according to the EU’s Copernicus Climate Change Service. The Arctic saw ice levels 8% below average, while the Antarctic was 26% below average, marking significant declines at both poles. This record follows an extreme heat event in the Arctic, where temperatures exceeded averages by over 20C, hindering normal ice growth. February 2025 was also noted as the third hottest February recorded, with global temperatures 1.59C above preindustrial levels. The ongoing decline in sea ice is attributed to climate change and has implications for the planet's ability to reflect sunlight, potentially accelerating warming. The situation is compounded by the recent El Niño weather pattern, which has now transitioned to a weaker La Niña.