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Antarctic Peninsula Hits Record 59.7°F Winter, Snow Vanishes

6/13/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Antarctic Peninsula endured an unprecedented winter heatwave that left parts snow-free.
Researchers recorded 59.7 °F (15.4 °C) on June 6 at Argentina’s Esperanza base, beating the previous winter record by 3.6 °F.
The peninsula has warmed about 5.4 °F since 1950—five times the global average—causing sea-ice loss that reduces albedo and amplifies heat absorption.
Scientists observed rain replacing snow and melting glaciers on King George Island, endangering penguin colonies and base infrastructure.

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Story summary

The Antarctic Peninsula endured an unprecedented winter heatwave that left parts snow-free.
Researchers recorded 59.7 °F (15.4 °C) on June 6 at Argentina’s Esperanza base, beating the previous winter record by 3.6 °F.
The peninsula has warmed about 5.4 °F since 1950—five times the global average—causing sea-ice loss that reduces albedo and amplifies heat absorption.
Scientists observed rain replacing snow and melting glaciers on King George Island, endangering penguin colonies and base infrastructure.