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NASA Discovers Long-Lasting Polynya in Weddell Sea

4/22/2025

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Summary

Story summary

NASA scientists have unveiled a striking polynya in Antarctica's Weddell Sea, which astonishingly remained open for weeks in 2017. This captivating phenomenon, tied to Maud Rise, arises from a mix of salt influx, storms, and Ekman transport. Its implications for global ocean currents and climate are profound, sparking worries about future occurrences in a warming world.

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Story summary

NASA scientists have unveiled a striking polynya in Antarctica's Weddell Sea, which astonishingly remained open for weeks in 2017. This captivating phenomenon, tied to Maud Rise, arises from a mix of salt influx, storms, and Ekman transport. Its implications for global ocean currents and climate are profound, sparking worries about future occurrences in a warming world.