Scientists discover the El Niño effect that marked a turning point in the Siberian Arctic

Scientists have identified a tipping point that has intensified the impact of El Niño on Arctic sea ice loss. Although the relationship between the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) and ice extent at high latitudes has been known for years, a new study indicates that this link has become stronger in northeastern Russia.

These accelerated transitions lead to warmer and wetter conditions in the region, resulting in less sea ice cover during the autumn following each phase change. The analysis focused on the Laptev and East Siberian Seas.

The study is based on a review of monthly sea surface temperature and sea ice concentration data collected between 1979 and 2023. The results show that areas of cooler surface water form in the central and eastern Pacific during the following autumn.

A strengthened climate mechanism

These colder areas influence atmospheric circulation by displacing a high-pressure system from the North Pacific northward, which favors the formation of another anticyclone over the Arctic seas of northeastern Russia. This set of processes facilitates the transport of heat and moisture from the Pacific to the Arctic.

The authors of the study point out that these changes are due to natural climate cycles and not to human activity. They warn that human-caused climate change introduces significant uncertainty when predicting long-term sea ice evolution. The team will analyze how global warming may modify or alter these natural patterns observed in the Arctic.

Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all.

Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.