Overview

• February 2025 saw global sea ice extent drop to a historic low, with Arctic ice 8% below average and Antarctic ice 26% below average.
• This marks the third consecutive month of record-low Arctic sea ice for the corresponding month, as reported by the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
• Global average temperatures in February were 1.59°C above pre-industrial levels, making it the third warmest February on record.
• Scientists warn that reduced sea ice accelerates global warming by decreasing Earth's reflectivity and could disrupt ecosystems and ocean currents.
• The World Meteorological Organization predicts a shift to neutral conditions from the current weak La Niña phase by mid-2025, with no significant El Niño development expected in the near term.