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Temperatures in parts of Antarctica have risen as much as 50 degrees Fahrenheit above average since mid-July. The warming is expected to continue until early August.
Scientists are concerned about the effects of the historic heat wave on the continent, which is usually known for its extremely low temperatures. This unusual heat during Antarctica’s coldest season could be a sign of future environmental challenges for the continent and could have global consequences, reports CNN.
Summer-like temperatures in winter are a concern for the region, even though most of Antarctica is quite cold. Global warming due to fossil fuel pollution could lead to significant sea level rise.
This region contains the thickest ice on planet Earth. The publication states that its complete melting could raise the average global sea level by more than 150 feet.
Recent data has shown that parts of East Antarctica are experiencing unusually high temperatures. Temperatures here usually range between -58 and -76 degrees Fahrenheit, but now they have reached between -13 and -22 degrees Fahrenheit.
Although still cold, these temperatures are comparable to those typically experienced in Astana (Kazakhstan), Yakutsk (Russia), Winnipeg (Canada), Harbin (China) and Fairbanks (USA). In general, Antarctica’s winter temperatures are much colder than most people imagine.
‘A case of surprise’
“I’m sure over time as we understand (this heat wave) better, more (impacts) will emerge, but at the moment, what we’re seeing is really surprising,” Thomas Bracegirdle told CNN.
The deputy science lead for the British Antarctic Survey’s atmosphere, ice and climate team told the publication that temperatures during the event were at record lows and could be an indication of future climate trends.
According to him, Antarctica is expected to experience more extreme high temperatures due to climate change, but this specific phenomenon requires further study. Although heat waves of this scale should be rare in Antarctica, scientists are not sure they are becoming more common. But, Bracegirdle said their perception may change soon.
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