NOAA Arctic Report Card Documents Accelerated Warming and Extensive Environmental Changes

The Arctic region is experiencing accelerated warming compared to the global average, a trend detailed in the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) annual Arctic Report Card. This report, now in its 20th year, tracks rapid environmental shifts in the northernmost parts of the planet.### Key Environmental ObservationsRusting Rivers PhenomenonHundreds of Arctic rivers and streams are displaying a bright red-orange discoloration. This phenomenon, documented across northern Alaska's Brooks Range, is attributed to naturally occurring iron leaching from thawing permafrost. As permafrost melts, water and oxygen penetrate the soil, releasing iron and other metals into nearby waterways. The iron oxidizes upon contact with stream water, causing the visible staining. Other metals, including copper and aluminum, are also being released, raising questions about potential impacts on aquatic life and rural drinking water supplies, which are currently under study. Josh Koch, a research hydrologist with the U.S. Geological Survey, noted observations of these 'rusting rivers' began around 2018.Temperature and Precipitation RecordsThe most recent year recorded was the warmest and wettest in the Arctic's documented history. Matthew Druckenmiller, lead editor of the report and a senior scientist at the National Snow and Ice Data Center, indicated that Arctic warming contributes to global sea-level rise, influences weather patterns, and affects commercial fisheries.Glacier and Ice Sheet ReductionThe Greenland Ice Sheet experienced a loss of 129 billion tons of ice in 2023, consistent with its long-term reduction trend. Arctic glaciers outside Greenland have also thinned significantly since the 1950s, with Alaskan glaciers losing an average of 125 vertical feet during this period. The melting of glaciers, such as the Mendenhall Glacier in Alaska, has led to increased glacial outburst floods. Global glacier loss contributes to rising sea levels, which can increase vulnerability to flooding, erosion, and storm surges in coastal areas.Oceanic Changes: AtlantificationWarmer, saltier water is increasingly observed in the Arctic Ocean near the North Pole, a process termed 'Atlantification.' This contributes to record low sea-ice extent in the region, with the most recent year marking the lowest sea-ice extent in the 47-year satellite record. Similar warming trends are noted in the Bering Sea, impacting commercial fish species such as Alaska Pollock and Pacific Salmon. The changes in water temperature are leading to an increase in southern marine species and a decrease in Arctic species, affecting both traditional hunting practices and commercial fisheries.### Report Context and Scientific IntegrityThe annual Arctic Report Card is compiled and written by an independent network of global scientists. The report openly discusses the effects of climate change, with some studies noting the burning of fossil fuels as a major contributing factor. Despite shifts in federal science and climate research administration perspectives, NOAA maintains its commitment to supporting this challenge, as stated by acting NOAA Chief Scientist Steve Thur. Druckenmiller affirmed full support from NOAA for the report's production.