Increased Frequency, Duration, and Area of Winter Polynyas North of Greenland in a Warming Climate
ID:401
Poster Presentation
2027-01-15 18:00 (China Standard Time)
Session:Session 5 - Arctic Ocean: Physical Processes and their Effects on Climate and the Ecosystem
Abstract
Polynyas play a crucial role in the polar marine ecosystem and climate system. Four winter polynya events north of Greenland have been observed, but their response to climate warming remains unknown. This study investigates projected changes in winter polynyas in the Wandel Sea north of Greenland using the AWI-CM3 climate model, which features 2-km ocean-ice resolution in the Arctic. We show that the model successfully simulates the main characteristics of observed polynyas. Future projections indicate that, under continued climate warming, winter polynyas will increase substantially in frequency, duration, and spatial extent once sea ice thickness falls below approximately 1.5 m. By 2100, polynyas could occur up to twice per winter, with a winter total duration exceeding 15 days under the SSP5-8.5 scenario. Our analysis indicates that sea ice thinning is likely the primary cause of these changes, as it reduces ice strength and enhances ice mobility.
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Important Dates
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Jan 30
2026
Session / Event proposals open
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Mar 31
2026
Session / Event proposals close
(Extended to April 7) -
Apr 30
2026
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Apr 30
2026
Abstract submissions & registration open
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Jun 30
2026
Abstract submissions close
(Extended to July 21) -
Aug 31
2026
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Sep 15
2026
Scientific program released
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Oct 15
2026
Early bird registration closes
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Jan 12–15
2027
XMAS 2027
