Global sea ice hits record low in February amid rising temperatures, climate service says

Global sea ice cover fell to a record low in February 2025, according to the EU’s Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S), marking a significant impact of climate change. The Arctic’s sea ice extent was 8% below average, while Antarctic ice was 26% below average, making it the fourth-lowest February on record for the region.

Scientists linked the decline to extreme warming events in the Arctic, where temperatures soared 20°C above average, preventing normal ice formation. The loss of reflective ice accelerates global warming by allowing oceans to absorb more heat.

February 2025 was also the third hottest February on record, with global temperatures 1.59°C above preindustrial levels. Experts warn that without drastic emission reductions, Arctic ice will continue to shrink, leading to more severe weather and rising sea levels worldwide.