Event Brief
West Antarctica winter sea ice fails to form
Filed: Jun 17, 2026 at 7:04 AM ET
Summary: Bellingshausen Sea is nearly ice-free, missing about 650,000 sq km of winter sea ice.
WHO: Scientists and satellite observations
WHAT: The Bellingshausen Sea failed to form its usual winter sea ice, leaving the region almost ice-free.
WHEN: Jun 17, 2026 at 6:30 AM ET
WHERE: Bellingshausen Sea, west of the Antarctic Peninsula
WHY: Temperatures climbed up to 45°F above normal, stopping ice from forming in Antarctic winter.
ℹ️ This event is analyzed using pattern arcs, velocity indicators, and source analysis in our MI Console.
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