Arctic Temperature Surge

The Arctic experienced an unprecedented rise in temperatures. On February 1, temperatures soared to 18 degrees Celsius above the 1991–2020 average in Svalbard, Norway. By February 2, temperatures exceeded 20 degrees Celsius above average at the North Pole. This extreme winter warming event has raised concerns about the implications for global climate patterns.

About Arctic Warming

The Arctic has warmed since 1979. It experiences temperatures that rise four times faster than the global average. This rapid warming affects global climate systems. The region acts as a refrigerator for the Earth. Its cooling effects are crucial for maintaining climate balance.

Factors Contributing to Temperature Increases

Several factors contribute to the Arctic’s temperature increases. A deep low-pressure system over Iceland allowed warmer air from lower latitudes to enter the Arctic. Additionally, unusually high sea surface temperatures in the north-east Atlantic intensified this warming. These factors combined to create temperature spike during the polar winter.

The Albedo Effect

The albedo effect plays a critical role in Arctic warming. Sea ice reflects sunlight, keeping temperatures lower. As ice melts, darker land or water surfaces are exposed. These surfaces absorb more heat, leading to further warming. The reduction of ice cover accelerates this process, creating a feedback loop of rising temperatures.

Convection and Heat Distribution

Convection is less effective in the Arctic compared to tropics. In warmer regions, air heated by the surface rises, distributing heat throughout the atmosphere. In the Arctic, weak convection means that heat remains concentrated near the surface. This lack of vertical mixing exacerbates the warming caused by greenhouse gases.

Global Implications of Arctic Warming

The rapid warming of the Arctic has severe global consequences. It can lead to rising sea levels due to melting ice caps. Additionally, it disrupts weather patterns worldwide. Changes in the Arctic can affect ecosystems and human populations far beyond the region.

Future Projections

If current warming trends continue, the Arctic could face even more extreme temperature changes. Scientists predict further ice melt and shifts in global weather patterns. Monitoring these changes is essential for understanding future climate scenarios.

Importance of Climate Action

Addressing climate change is crucial to mitigate these effects. Reducing greenhouse gas emissions can help slow down Arctic warming. International cooperation is necessary to implement effective climate policies.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Examine the implications of the albedo effect on climate change.
2. Critically discuss the role of ocean currents in global climate regulation.
3. Analyse the factors contributing to extreme weather events globally in recent years.
4. Point out the potential socio-economic impacts of rising sea levels on coastal communities.

Answer Hints:

1. Examine the implications of the albedo effect on climate change.

1. The albedo effect refers to the reflectivity of surfaces; higher reflectivity leads to less heat absorption.
2. Sea ice has a high albedo, reflecting sunlight and keeping polar regions cooler.
3. As ice melts, darker ocean or land surfaces are exposed, which absorb more heat, accelerating warming.
4. This feedback loop results in further ice melt and increased temperatures in the Arctic.
5. The implications extend globally, influencing weather patterns and climate stability.

2. Critically discuss the role of ocean currents in global climate regulation.

1. Ocean currents distribute heat around the planet, influencing regional climates.
2. Warm currents can raise temperatures in coastal areas, while cold currents can have a cooling effect.
3. Changes in currents due to climate change can disrupt weather patterns and lead to extreme weather events.
4. Currents also affect marine ecosystems, impacting fish populations and biodiversity.
5. About ocean currents is crucial for predicting future climate scenarios and impacts.

3. Analyse the factors contributing to extreme weather events globally in recent years.

1. Climate change has increased the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events.
2. Rising global temperatures lead to more heatwaves, storms, and heavy rainfall.
3. Changes in atmospheric patterns, such as the jet stream, can exacerbate these events.
4. Urbanization and land use changes can increase vulnerability to extreme weather.
5. Natural variability also plays a role, but human-induced factors are in recent trends.

4. Point out the potential socio-economic impacts of rising sea levels on coastal communities.

1. Rising sea levels threaten to inundate coastal areas, displacing communities and disrupting livelihoods.
2. Increased flooding can damage infrastructure, leading to costly repairs and economic losses.
3. Saltwater intrusion can affect freshwater supplies and agriculture, impacting food security.
4. Tourism-dependent economies may suffer as beaches erode and natural attractions are lost.
5. Social inequalities may worsen, as vulnerable populations are disproportionately affected by these changes.