Sea Ice Minimum

The Sea Ice Minimum is the point each year when Arctic and Antarctic sea ice reach their smallest extent, typically in late summer. This marks the end of the melting season and is used to measure changes in the Earth's climate over time. Variations in the ice minimum can indicate trends in global warming, as rising temperatures cause more ice to melt. Climate scientists monitor this minimum to understand impacts on ecosystems, sea levels, and weather patterns. It’s a key indicator of how our planet’s icy regions are responding to climate change.