· ·

Retreating sea ice around Alaska sign of advancing spring

retreating-sea-ice-around-alaska-sign-of-advancing-spring

Over the winter of 2011–2012, the extent of sea ice in the Arctic Ocean was slightly below the 1979–2000 average, but conditions in the Bering Sea were different. There, sea ice extents were well above normal, reaching a record high in March 2012. Two factors contributed to the extensive sea ice cover: low air temperatures and persistent northerly winds.

The winds pushed ice from the Arctic Ocean southward toward the Bering Strait. Since the strait is narrow and shallow, it allowed little room for the ice to move. The ice gradually piled up and formed an arch. Unlike a vertical arch, this ice arch was a continuous, horizontal band that worked like a keystone arch in a building, holding everything in place. The arch spanned the strait and blocked the southward movement of ice for a while, but then collapsed along its southern margin and allowed the ice to flow into the Bering Sea.

Strong northerly winds keep pushing the ice southward according to the National Snow and Ice Data Center. April 2012 brought a change in the atmospheric conditions that had prevailed throughout the winter. After a long stretch of unusually cold air temperatures and strong, persistent winds, temperatures rose to near normal and wind speeds dropped. Besides retreating sea ice, other signs of advancing spring appear in the image from April 24: Snow cover has dissipated along the Alaska Peninsula. (Earth Observatory)

Share:

Commenting rules and guidelines

We value the thoughts and opinions of our readers and welcome healthy discussions on our website. In order to maintain a respectful and positive community, we ask that all commenters follow these rules:

  • Treat others with kindness and respect.
  • Stay on topic and contribute to the conversation in a meaningful way.
  • Do not use abusive or hateful language.
  • Do not spam or promote unrelated products or services.
  • Do not post any personal information or content that is illegal, obscene, or otherwise inappropriate.

We reserve the right to remove any comments that violate these rules. By commenting on our website, you agree to abide by these guidelines. Thank you for helping to create a positive and welcoming environment for all.

Leave a reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *