Polar Ice Caps Melt Really Fast In Arctic And Antarctic Regions; Lowest Sea Ice Area Ever Recorded In 2016

The National Snow and Ice Data Center (NSIDC) recently released the latest satellite data and stated that November 2016 recorded a massive drop in the total sea ice area, in both the Arctic and Antarctic regions. This is attributed to global warming and melting of polar ice caps.

The data clearly stated that this year, a big chunk of Arctic polar ice cap, as large as the shape of Mexico, was missing in the month of November. Similar patterns were observed by researchers working on Antarctic polar ice caps.

Arctic and Antarctic follow a seasonal snow cycle that involves deposition of ice in winter especially in the month of November. On the contrary, this year November was recorded as the month with highest rate of meting of polar ice caps, reports Climate Central.

This is a new record of polar ice cap melting ever. Experts are perplexed on this strange phenomenon, as the exact cause behind its occurrence remains a mystery that is yet to be solved. According to Julienne Stroeve, NSIDC scientist, "It is very striking this November in both hemispheres." She also added that, "It certainly is continuing the long-term decline in Arctic sea ice. It's a bit more curious about what is happening in Antarctica, so more research on that is needed," reported The Weather Company.

Many experts are of the view that the rapid decrease in sea ice area is the outcome of constant increase in average ambient temperature of Arctic and Antarctic regions. Furthermore, scientists have also observed warming of the ocean water near the polar ice caps. This may be the cause that prevents freezing of sea water and formation of sea ice. This should be considered as a warning sign for all of the people, because the decrease in polar ice caps will apparently cause abrupt climatic changes and natural calamities in the American and Asian continents.