Global Sea Ice Extent Hits Record Low in February

The EU's Copernicus Climate Service reports unprecedented sea ice shrinkage as the world experiences its third-warmest February on record.

The global sea ice extent fell to 16.04 million square kilometers in early February, the lowest since records began in 1979.
Arctic sea ice was 8% below the long-term February average, marking the lowest February extent on record for the region.
Antarctic sea ice was 26% below the February average, reaching its fourth-lowest value for the month, with the annual minimum expected in March.
February 2025 was 0.63°C warmer than the 1991–2020 average and 1.59°C above pre-industrial levels, making it the third-warmest February globally.
Scientists warn that shrinking sea ice accelerates global warming by reducing the Earth's reflective surface and increasing heat absorption by oceans.