A photo depicting penguins and a seal on the Antarctic Peninsula is credited to Prof. Anna E. Hogg from the University of Leeds.
The study points to the likely escalation in the frequency and severity of extreme events in Antarctica, including ocean heatwaves and the loss of ice.
With the global push to limit the temperature increase to 1.5°C as per the Paris Agreement, scientists are alerting that the current unusual conditions in Antarctica could merely be a forewarning of future occurrences.
The research explores instances of extreme weather in the Southern Ocean and Antarctica, covering areas such as weather, sea ice, ocean temperatures, glacier and ice shelf systems, and land and marine biodiversity.
The findings stress that Antarctica’s sensitive ecosystems “could be subject to significant strain and harm in the coming years and decades” – a situation that demands immediate policy measures for protection.
Professor Martin Siegert from the University of Exeter, the lead author of the study, remarked, “The transformation of Antarctica has global ramifications. Our best chance to preserve Antarctica lies in cutting greenhouse gas emissions to net zero. This should be a concern for every country and individual around the world.”
He also warned that the swift changes now occurring in Antarctica might cause several countries to violate an international agreement.
He stated, “The Antarctic Treaty’s signatories, which include the UK, USA, India, and China, have committed to safeguarding this distant and delicate location. They must realize that continued exploration, extraction, and combustion of fossil fuels globally will increasingly affect Antarctica in ways that contradict their vow.”
The research analyzed Antarctica’s susceptibility to various extreme conditions to gauge the reasons and probable future transformations, in light of recent alarming events.
For instance, East Antarctica saw the largest heatwave ever recorded (38.5°C above the mean) in 2022, and currently, the formation of winter sea ice is at an all-time low.
Such extreme phenomena can also influence biodiversity. High temperatures have been associated with years of decreased krill numbers, resulting in the breeding failures of predators dependent on krill, as seen by numerous dead fur seal pups on shores.
Professor Anna Hogg of the University of Leeds, a co-author of the paper, stated, “Our findings demonstrate that, similar to global impacts like heavy rain, floods, heatwaves, and wildfires witnessed in Europe this summer, the isolated polar regions are also affected. Extreme events impact Antarctic glaciers, sea ice, and ecosystems, making it crucial that international agreements and policies are enforced to shield these stunning yet fragile areas.”
Dr. Caroline Holmes, a specialist in sea ice at the British Antarctic Survey, added, “The fluctuating records of Antarctic sea ice have been making news lately. This study highlights how record highs followed by record lows in sea ice have been a trend in Antarctica for years.”
Furthermore, she emphasized the profound links between different extreme conditions in Antarctica’s physical and biological system, nearly all of which are susceptible to human interference.
The researchers note that the retreat of Antarctic sea ice will open new areas for shipping, requiring cautious management to preserve delicate locations.
The European Space Agency and European Commission Copernicus Sentinel satellites are vital for consistent observation of the Antarctic region and Southern Ocean, with data that can accurately measure ice speed, thickness, and loss.
The study, titled “Antarctic extreme events,” was authored by Martin J. Siegert, Mike J. Bentley, Angus Atkinson, Thomas J. Bracegirdle, Peter Convey, Bethan Davies, Rod Downie, Anna E. Hogg, Caroline Holmes, Kevin A. Hughes, Michael P. Meredith, Neil Ross, Jane Rumble, and Jeremy Wilkinson. It was published on 8 August 2023 in Frontiers in Environmental Science, with DOI: 10.3389/fenvs.2023.1229283.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about fokus keyword: Antarctica
What extreme events are researchers warning about in Antarctica?
Researchers are warning about an increase in the frequency and intensity of extreme events in Antarctica, including ocean heatwaves, ice loss, and extreme weather conditions.
What could be the implications of the changes in Antarctica?
The changes in Antarctica have global implications, affecting weather, sea ice, ocean temperatures, glaciers, and biodiversity. Continued degradation could lead to many countries breaching the Antarctic Treaty.
How can Antarctica be preserved according to the study?
The study emphasizes the need for urgent policy action, including reducing greenhouse gas emissions to net zero and careful management of new areas made accessible by the retreat of sea ice. International cooperation and adherence to treaties are essential.
What recent extreme events were recorded in Antarctica?
The world’s largest recorded heatwave (38.5°C above the mean) occurred in East Antarctica in 2022, and winter sea ice formation is currently at the lowest level on record. There have also been fluctuations in sea ice records and links to changes in biodiversity, such as lower krill numbers.
Who are the key scientists involved in the research?
Some key scientists involved in the research include lead author Professor Martin Siegert from the University of Exeter, co-author Professor Anna Hogg from the University of Leeds, and Dr. Caroline Holmes, a sea ice expert at the British Antarctic Survey.
How are the European Space Agency and European Commission Copernicus Sentinel satellites involved?
These satellites are essential tools for the regular monitoring of the whole Antarctic region and the Southern Ocean. The data they provide can be used to measure ice speed, sea ice thickness, and ice loss with exceptionally fine resolution.
More about fokus keyword: Antarctica
- Antarctic Extreme Events Research Paper
- University of Exeter
- University of Leeds
- British Antarctic Survey
- European Space Agency
- European Commission Copernicus Sentinel Satellites
- Paris Agreement
- Antarctic Treaty
5 comments
The satelite stuff sounds interesting – how can we get accss to that data? It might be important for more research or maybe even for schools to teach about
Our earth is crying out and Antartica is like the warning bell. We should all take this seriosly, its not just about ice, its about the whole planet!
This whole article sends shivers down my spine. I mean, 38.5°C above the mean in Antartica? That’s insane. Why aren’t we doing more to fix this.
i just read this and im really worried about the animals like the penguins and seals. what’s gonna happen to them with all this heat and ice loss??
wow, this is scary stuff! can’t believe how fast things are changing in Antartica. we need to do someting quick