Scienceenvironment
Atmospheric rivers opened hole in Antarctica sea ice
In August 2024, an enormous opening in the winter sea ice formed in Breid Bay off the coast of East Antarctica. Spanning an area roughly the size of Portugal, this feature, known as a polynya, appeared during the coldest depths of the year. Historically, this specific region had remained continuously covered by sea ice since reliable satellite observations began in 1979. Researchers have now linked this unusual event to intense atmospheric rivers that delivered warmth and moisture to the region.