Global Sea Ice Reaches Historic Low in February

The Arctic and Antarctic sea ice extent hit record lows last month, driven by rising global temperatures and climate anomalies.

February 2025 recorded the lowest combined sea ice extent for the Arctic and Antarctic since satellite observations began in the late 1970s.
Arctic sea ice was 8% below its February average, marking its lowest extent for the month, while Antarctic sea ice was 26% below its seasonal average.
This decline coincides with the third consecutive year of historically high global temperatures, with February 2025 being 1.5°C warmer than pre-industrial levels.
Scientists highlight the role of climate change and recent extreme heat anomalies in hindering sea ice recovery, particularly during critical seasonal periods.
The loss of reflective ice surfaces accelerates global warming by increasing solar absorption, further exacerbating the climate crisis.