Arctic Sea Ice Shrinks to Second Lowest Level Ever

Ice level at the North Pole have shrunk to their second lowest level ever, scientists say--and there could be worse to come. Every year the arctic ice naturally shrinks in the spring and summer before regrowing during winter, however the drastic melt in 2016 has surprised scientists.

According to a new report released by NSIDC and NASA, arctic ice levels fell to their lowest levels this year on September 10, covering about 1.6 million square miles (4.4 million square kilometers), almost the same as in September 2007. The lowest sea ice extent recorded was on September 17, 2012, when it fell to just 1.31 million square miles (3.39 million square kilometers).

Arctic sea ice is important for maintaining the planet's temperature, according to NASA, as well as influencing the circulation of the atmosphere and the ocean. Dramatically reduced sea ice can also impact the Arctic ecosystem and communities.

http://www.cnn.com/2016/09/16/weather/arctic-sea-ice-shrinking/index.html