NASA's Terra satellite recently captured the seasonal breakup of sea ice in Canada's Amundsen Gulf, according to NASA's Earth Observatory. The image depicts a stunning sight, but it also signals serious implications for the region's ecosystems.
What's happening?
The image shows the ongoing sea ice breakup. As detailed by the Daily Galaxy, the gulf is known for having thick sea ice that impedes and delays explorers and commercial vessels navigating the Northwest Passage.
According to NASA, the sea ice in the wider Arctic region began its "annual cycle of melting and breakup" in late March, and the process typically takes 2-22 weeks.
Why does the timing of the sea ice breakup matter?
Researchers closely monitor the ice breakup to track how rising temperatures are impacting the Arctic and its ecosystems. The delayed sea ice breakup reflects a broader trend in the Arctic of accelerated ice loss caused by shifting weather patterns.
"The implications of this loss are far-reaching, both for the environment and for global climate systems," Daily Galaxy wrote.
According to an indicator report by the Environmental Protection Agency, the Arctic sea ice melt season has lengthened by about 40 days since 1979, melting eight days earlier and refreezing 31 days later than the recorded average.
Faster melting of sea ice exposes dark ocean water that absorbs more sunlight. This, in turn, can accelerate warming, supercharging extreme weather events and shifting weather patterns.
Stronger storms could cause more frequent flooding — forcing communities to spend more on recovery.
What can you do to help?
To monitor melting ice sheets in the Arctic, scientists have developed high-speed drones, which were tested in the harsh environment of Greenland.
While extreme weather isn't new, experts say that human-induced pollution intensifies storms. This makes them more powerful and dangerous, especially for vulnerable communities.
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