Arctic sea ice likely reached 2026 minimum at 4.60 million square kilometers

The estimated September 12 minimum ties for tenth lowest in the satellite record; the result remains preliminary.

Arctic sea ice likely reached its 2026 annual minimum on September 12 at an estimated 4.60 million square kilometers, tied for the tenth-lowest in the satellite record. The 20 lowest annual minima have occurred since 2007. NSIDC cautions that winds could still compact the ice and lower the preliminary figure.