Arctic Ice Loss Resumes After Brief Slowdown, PNAS Study Confirms

A PNAS study published July 2026 finds the 2005–2024 slowdown in Arctic sea ice loss was temporary. The Arctic lost 5.8% of its ice between 2024 and 2025 — the largest wintertime drop on record. Lead author Dr. Duo Chan of Southampton says low winter ice in 2025 and 2026 confirms the decline continues.