Unprecedented Deep-Winter Heatwave Strikes Antarctica

Context:

Antarctica has been experiencing an extraordinary deep-winter heatwave, marking a significant climatic event with record-breaking temperatures for the second time in two years. Since mid-July 2024, ground temperatures in the region have surged, averaging 10 degrees Celsius above normal, with some localities witnessing increases of up to 28 degrees Celsius. This unusual warming during what is typically the coldest time of the year highlights ongoing changes in global climate patterns and raises concerns about their profound impacts on polar ecosystems.

Relevance:

GS I: Geography

Dimensions of the Article:

1. Causes of Deep-Winter Heat Waves in Antarctica
2. Consequences of Heat Waves in Antarctica

Causes of Deep-Winter Heat Waves in Antarctica:

• Polar Vortex Dynamics: The polar vortex, a large area of low pressure surrounding the poles, experiences a weakening in summer and strengthening in winter. Its disruption by atmospheric waves allows warm air to descend and cold air to escape, raising regional temperatures.
• Decline in Sea Ice: Antarctic sea ice is at record low levels, diminishing its role as a reflective barrier and contributing to global temperature rises.
• Rate of Warming: Antarctica’s warming rate is nearly double the global average, significantly influenced by human-induced climate change.
• Southern Ocean’s Role: Increased heat absorption by the warming Southern Ocean, due to less sea ice, creates a feedback loop that escalates local and global temperatures and extreme weather risks.

Consequences of Heat Waves in Antarctica:

• Ice Mass Loss Acceleration: Warming has significantly increased ice mass loss, with a notable rise compared to the 1980s and 1990s.
• Rising Sea Levels: A heat wave in March 2022 led to the collapse of a large ice section, underlining the potential rise in global sea levels that could displace millions living near coastlines.
• Ocean Circulation Impacts: Freshwater from melting ice is altering ocean salinity and density, slowing global circulation, reducing heat, carbon, and nutrient transport, and enhancing global warming.
• Ecosystem Disruption: Local ecosystems are destabilized due to temperature fluctuations and ice loss, impacting species reliant on stable ice conditions and triggering biodiversity declines.
• Albedo Effect Reduction: The loss of ice increases heat absorption by the earth’s surfaces, worsening the cycle of climate change.

-Source: Indian Express