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2 clusters · 11 sources · 9 days · First seen · Last updated

Antarctic Breid Bay polynya discovery

Overview

In August 2024, a massive polynya—an area of open water—was discovered in the Breid Bay region of East Antarctica. Satellite imagery indicated the opening reached approximately 89,121 square kilometers, a size comparable to Portugal.

Research led by geoscientist Jeebanjyoti Swain identified that the phenomenon resulted from a combination of extreme weather and oceanic processes. Specifically, six powerful atmospheric rivers transported warm, moist air from lower latitudes to the Antarctic region, while marine heatwaves and strong winds prevented sea ice formation. The winds triggered Ekman suction, which brought warmer, deep circumpolar water to the ocean surface.

Scientists warn that these occurrences may become more frequent due to climate change and changing atmospheric conditions. Such events have direct consequences for Antarctic ecosystems that depend on stable ice patterns for their food webs.

Entities

Jeebanjyoti Swain · Antarctica · Breid Bay · NASA · Jibandjoti Swain

Timeline

  1. [INTERNATIONAL] 4 sources
    NASA discovers massive ice hole in Antarctica

    NASA has identified a massive hole in the Antarctic ice, roughly the size of Portugal, caused by extreme weather and atmospheric rivers, a phenomenon scientists warn may increase due to warming.

  2. [INTERNATIONAL] 7 sources
    Antarctica: Massive polynya the size of Portugal discovered in Breid Bay

    A massive polynya, roughly the size of Portugal, opened in Antarctica's Breid Bay in August 2024, driven by extreme atmospheric rivers and marine heatwaves, according to new research.

Sources

contextohn.com · expreso.ec · klik.hr · kurir.rs · lat.sputnikportal.rs · merca2.es · mondo.rs · promotions.hu · sd.rs · sdpnoticias.com · toysforlife.co.nz