Scientists have reported a reduction in the area of sea ice off the coast of Antarctica

In the western part of Antarctica, a section of winter sea ice with an area of about 650 thousand square kilometers has not formed, which is comparable to the territory of France. This was announced on June 14 by ABC TV channel.

"Scientists claim that there is no large area of winter sea ice in the western part of Antarctica "about the size of France," which raises concerns that it may never form again," the publication says.

Satellite images have shown that the Bellingshausen Sea, which is usually covered with ice in June, remains virtually ice-free this year. According to the researchers, current oceanic conditions may prevent the formation of significant amounts of sea ice in winter.

Scientists have warned that the reduction of ice cover could affect marine ecosystems, including penguin populations, as well as the stability of ice shelves, which play an important role in regulating global ocean levels.

The exact causes of what is happening are still being studied, but the observed changes correspond to forecasts related to global warming. According to experts, an increase in ocean temperature may be one of the key factors in reducing the area of sea ice.

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The journal Nature Communications reported on May 10 that Antarctica's ice shelves may be collapsing faster than current climate models predict. This is the conclusion reached by scientists who have discovered a new oceanic mechanism that enhances melting even in the cold waters of East Antarctica. According to forecasts, by the end of the 21st century, the level of the world's oceans will rise by several tens of centimeters.