For scientists studying summer sea ice in the Arctic, it’s not a question of “if” there will be nearly ice-free summers, but “when.” And two scientists say that “when” is sooner than many thought — before 2050 and possibly within the next decade or two.
![Warming at more than twice the rate of anywhere else on Earth, the Arctic is on the front lines of climate change. (Image credit: NOAA) Warming at more than twice the rate of anywhere else on Earth, the Arctic is on the front lines of climate change.](/sites/default/files/styles/landscape_width_1275/public/legacy/image/2019/Jun/arctic-morning-on-the-ice_noaa_3000.jpg?itok=b1nzpzZR)
Warming at more than twice the rate of anywhere else on Earth, the Arctic is on the front lines of climate change. (Image credit: NOAA)