Arctic sea ice levels hit another record low

Another sad, climate-related record has been made. The National Snow and Ice Data Center announced Wednesday that Arctic sea ice hit its maximum extent for the year on March 7, and it was the lowest in the 38 years of satellite records. Warmer-than-average temperatures and other factors, such as storms, during the winter slowed ice growth, the researchers said.

Sea ice in the Arctic not only affects wildlife such as polar bears, seals and walruses, but it also helps regulate the planet’s temperature by influencing the circulation of the atmosphere and ocean.