A Switzerland-size hole opened in Antarctica’s sea ice in 2016-17. Now we know why

2 comments

1. The Maud Rise polynya goes back further than 2016. It was first identified by Earth-sensing satellites in the 1970s, most notably during the winters from 1974 to 1976. Scientists assumed that the polynya would return each winter, but that hasn’t been the case — it has only reappeared sporadically, and for brief periods.

2. From the article:

   According to a new study, it ultimately formed due to a combination of wind, ocean currents and underwater geography that created the perfect salty conditions to melt the sea ice.