Arctic Ice Decreased to Record Lows

Because of the high temperatures in recent months, the Arctic ice sheet has decreased to record lows, according to the Russian Meteorological Center (WRC) reports.

Currently, the ice covers an area of ​​6.860 million square kilometers, close to the minimum in 2007, while all Russian Arctic seas are under the norm. The ice surface in the southwestern Kara Sea is 56% below the norm, whereas in the case of the Sea of ​​Chukotka this percentage is 35 percent.

The WRC reports that during this month, almost all arctic routes will be free for the navigation for non ice-breaker ships, as the sailing conditions are considered “very good”.

According to experts, the progressive melting because of the rising temperatures will cause this ocean to become completely clear, for that reason no icebreakers will be needed in summer season of 2040.  (BG)

Source: El Universo Newspaper