​Antarctica’s Record Heatwave

Currently, an unprecedented heatwave is sweeping through Antarctica, with temperatures soaring up to 28 degrees Celsius above average, signalling a concerning trend for the planet's coldest continent.

Key Points

• Unprecedented Temperature Rise: Since mid-July, ground temperatures in Antarctica have been 10 degrees Celsius above average, with some days experiencing up to 28 degrees Celsius higher than normal.
• Typical winter temperatures range from minus 50 to minus 60 degrees Celsius, making these deviations particularly alarming.
• Weakened Polar Vortex: The primary cause of this heatwave is the weakening of the polar vortex, a band of cold air encircling the poles. This disturbance has ....