Arctic sea ice nears annual low: What's the cause and what's the impact?

Meteorologists at ArabiaWeather reported that Arctic sea ice reached its lowest level on September 10, 2025. This decline reflects the long-term consequences of the ice retreat due to rising global temperatures.

Why does ice melt every summer?

Ice forms in the winter and melts in the summer due to rising temperatures. In recent years, the melting has become more rapid and intense due to global warming and unusual weather conditions. According to NASA data, the extent of Arctic sea ice has been below pre-2007 levels for the past 19 years.

What's happening in Antarctica?

Sea ice around Antarctica is nearing its annual maximum, but this year it is below average.

How do satellites track ice?

The extent and thickness of the ice are monitored daily by satellites like ICESat-2. These satellites measure the height of the ice with lasers, helping scientists more accurately understand climate change. According to official NASA reports, we have more than 47 years of continuous sea ice monitoring.

Examples of the impact of melting ice on specific countries and regions:

Maldives and Florida (USA)

• Sea levels are rising due to the melting of sea ice and ice sheets.
• Threatens low-lying coasts and coastal infrastructure.

Russia and Eastern Canada (Arctic and Arctic regions)

• Melting sea ice opens new sea routes (such as the Northeast Passage), but increases local weather variability and heat extremes.

• Northern Europe and the Middle East (indirect)

• Changing weather currents and warming of the Atlantic and Arctic Oceans are leading to longer heat waves and sometimes drought or unusual rainfall.
• A NOAA study links reduced Arctic sea ice to warmer summers in Europe and North Africa, including climate impacts on Saudi Arabia (indirect).

Why is it important to study ice melting?

The decline in ice is affecting global climate, sea levels, and weather. Residents of coastal areas like Riyadh have noticed changing weather and temperature patterns over the past years.

Conclusion

Arctic sea ice continues to decline in line with the long-term trend, while Antarctica is more variable and complex. Monitoring satellite data and combining it with population experience and official data such as those from the Department of Energy helps us understand the impact of polar changes on our daily lives, weather, and energy.