Skies in the Arctic have been lit up by extremely rare "rainbow clouds" for more than three days. According to a report by LiveScience on Thursday (Dec 21), experts said these rainbow clouds, also known as polar stratospheric clouds (PSCs), could appear during the next few months.

Skies in the Arctic have been lit up by extremely rare "rainbow clouds" for more than three days. According to a report by LiveScience on Thursday (Dec 21), experts said these rainbow clouds, also known as polar stratospheric clouds (PSCs), could appear during the next few months. PSCs were spotted in Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Alaska, and even as far as Scotland. These colourful treats started appearing on Dec 18 due to an unusual cold snap and continued to appear till Dec 20. The report said that some smaller distinct clouds were also seen on Thursday, but in general, they seemed to be disappearing. 'The colours are spectacular' The photographs of PSCs above Gran in Norway were captured by Ramunė Šapailaitė. Speaking to Spaceweather.com, Šapailaitė called the colours seen in the sky "spectacular." She added, "The clouds were visible in the sky all day, but the colours really exploded just before sunset." Also read: It's holiday season in space too! See the beautiful running-chicken-like nebula The photographs, which Šapailaitė clicked on her phone, revealed the rainbow hues of PSCs and their iridescent shimmer. What are PSCs? According to Harvard University, PSCs are clouds that form when water vapour enters the stratosphere and temperatures are cold enough for water vapour to condense there. During the winter season, high latitudes receive very little to no solar radiation, so temperatures drop significantly during this period, known as polar night. Under these conditions, PSCs can develop, Harvard said. "They trap outgoing longwave radiation (OLR) and emit some of it back towards the Earth's surface, so they hinder atmospheric cooling," as per the university's website. The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has said that PSCs are occurring with an increasing frequency in the Arctic. There are two types of PSCs- first: the ones made from a mix of ice crystals and nitric acid, which produce less spectacular colours and second: the ones which are composed of pure ice crystals and produce more vivid colors. The rainbow clouds that were seen in the Arctic on Dec 18 were type 2 PSCs.

Arctic skies lit up by extremely rare rainbow clouds. What's the phenomenon?

India launched its inaugural winter expedition to the Arctic. Led by a team from the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research, the mission at Himadri Station in Norway aims to study atmospheric changes, aurora lights, and sea ice patterns.

Gravitas: India embarks on groundbreaking winter Arctic expedition

Chum salmon, a species of anadromous salmonid fish, have found a new location to spawn—the Arctic waters, and the scientists are alarmed.

Chum salmon are said to be anadromous, which means they hatch in freshwater streams and rivers and then migrate out to the saltwater environment of the ocean to feed and grow.

They do not reside in fresh water for an extended period.

However, scientists have recently discovered that these migrating fish have been spawning in uncharted waters.

They believe that due to unprecedented warming of the waters, an after-effect of climate change, the Arctic is becoming conducive for them to breed in large numbers.

<h2>Arctic waters warming at a faster rate&nbsp;</h2>

According to ‘Nature’ journal, the Arctic is warming four times faster than the rest of the planet. Scientists say that this could explain the presence of chum salmon farther north.

“What seems to be happening is that these Arctic rivers are just now starting to become suitable,” Peter Westley, an ecologist at the University of Alaska, to Wired outlet.

However, these biologists are yet to figure out how increased salmon counts in far northern rivers will impact other species relied upon by locals in the region.

One plausible reason being given is that salmon lay a bunch of eggs, and then die, as part of their life cycle, and it might provide food for other species.

<h2>Presence signals overall ecological change&nbsp;</h2>

But they have also warned that migration their presence signals an overall ecological change, including melting ice, and more green growth, among others.

One concern deals with all the extra water created by ice melt. Wired reported that experts are concerned new flows will degrade the soil, mixing aboveground water with underground springs.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-identifies-17-exoplanets-hosting-hidden-oceans-beneath-icy-shells-erupting-geysers-670260">NASA identifies 17 exoplanets hosting 'hidden' oceans beneath icy shells, erupting geyser</a>

More vegetation — even taller shrubs — can have implications. They can trap snow on the soil, insulating the ground, and preventing it from freezing.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/iss-astronaut-snaps-photos-of-icebergs-a-reminder-of-climate-change-670133">ISS astronaut snaps photos of icebergs - a reminder of climate change</a>

“That could accelerate the thawing of permafrost, which in turn would release planet-heating methane,” Wired reported.

Researchers are now placing sensors in the Arctic to measure water temperature, as it can help them determine if the waters are hospitable to an expanded salmon presence.

(With inputs from agencies)

Chum salmon, a species of anadromous salmonid fish, have found a new location to spawn—the Arctic waters, and the scientists are alarmed. Chum salmon are said to be anadromous, which means they hatch in freshwater streams and rivers and then migrate out to the saltwater environment of the ocean to feed and grow.

Chum salmon, a species of anadromous salmonid fish, have found a new location to spawn—the Arctic waters, and the scientists are alarmed. Chum salmon are said to be anadromous, which means they hatch in freshwater streams and rivers and then migrate out to the saltwater environment of the ocean to feed and grow. They do not reside in fresh water for an extended period. However, scientists have recently discovered that these migrating fish have been spawning in uncharted waters. They believe that due to unprecedented warming of the waters, an after-effect of climate change, the Arctic is becoming conducive for them to breed in large numbers. Arctic waters warming at a faster rate According to ‘Nature’ journal, the Arctic is warming four times faster than the rest of the planet. Scientists say that this could explain the presence of chum salmon farther north. “What seems to be happening is that these Arctic rivers are just now starting to become suitable,” Peter Westley, an ecologist at the University of Alaska, to Wired outlet. However, these biologists are yet to figure out how increased salmon counts in far northern rivers will impact other species relied upon by locals in the region. One plausible reason being given is that salmon lay a bunch of eggs, and then die, as part of their life cycle, and it might provide food for other species. Presence signals overall ecological change But they have also warned that migration their presence signals an overall ecological change, including melting ice, and more green growth, among others. One concern deals with all the extra water created by ice melt. Wired reported that experts are concerned new flows will degrade the soil, mixing aboveground water with underground springs. Also read | NASA identifies 17 exoplanets hosting 'hidden' oceans beneath icy shells, erupting geyser More vegetation — even taller shrubs — can have implications. They can trap snow on the soil, insulating the ground, and preventing it from freezing. Also read | ISS astronaut snaps photos of icebergs - a reminder of climate change “That could accelerate the thawing of permafrost, which in turn would release planet-heating methane,” Wired reported. Researchers are now placing sensors in the Arctic to measure water temperature, as it can help them determine if the waters are hospitable to an expanded salmon presence. (With inputs from agencies)

Chum salmon are breeding in Arctic, and it is 'an ominous sign’ for humanity

How and when did humans get to North America? It is arguably one of the most hotly debated topics in archaeology. There have been many theories and studies over the years, and a recent study suggests that sea ice may have played a role in one way for people to move farther south.&nbsp;

Traditionally, scientists have believed that around 13,000 years ago, Stone Age hunters made their way across a land bridge between eastern Siberia and western Alaska and eventually walked their way to an ice-free corridor that briefly opened between ice sheets during this time.&nbsp;

However, recent findings, including human footprints in New Mexico which date back to 23,000 years have once again reignited the debate since the discoveries suggest that people made their way onto the continent much earlier.

<h2>What does the recent study propose?</h2>

Research presented on December 15 at the American Geophysical Union Annual Meeting (AGU23) suggests that sea ice may have been one way for people to move thousands of years ago.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasas-tiny-telescope-discovers-seven-hot-jupiters-millions-of-light-years-away-670508">NASA’s tiny telescope discovers seven hot Jupiters millions of light-years away</a>

While the idea that early Americans may have travelled along the Pacific Coast isn’t new, the conditions were not exactly favourable. In 2020, researchers noted that freshwater from melting glaciers at the time may have created a strong current which would make it difficult for people to travel along the coast.

In line with this, Summer Praetorius the United States Geological Survey (USGS) and her team tried to study climate proxies in ocean sediment from the coast. Archaeologists have previously found evidence of coastal settlements as early as 14,000 years ago.&nbsp;

Although most of the data for Praetorius’ study came from tiny, fossilised plankton, researchers also used climate models to check ocean currents at the time. The abundance and chemistry of these organisms helped scientists reconstruct ocean temperatures, salinity, and sea ice cover.

<h2>What did they find?</h2>

Praetorious’ team found that ocean currents were twice the strength they are today at the height of the last glacial maximum around 20,000 years ago due to glacial winds and lower sea levels, conditions which would have made travelling by boat nearly impossible.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/iss-astronaut-snaps-photos-of-icebergs-a-reminder-of-climate-change-670133">ISS astronaut snaps photos of icebergs - a reminder of climate change</a>

Therefore, Praetorius suggests that since&nbsp;people back then who were adapted to the cold, would “rather than having to paddle against this horrible glacial current, maybe they were using the sea ice as a platform.” Similar to how people living in the Arctic travel along sea ice on dog sleds and snowmobiles.&nbsp;

Early Americans could have used the ‘sea ice highway’ to get around and hunt marine mammals, slowly making their way into North America in the process, said Praetorius.&nbsp;

While proving this will be difficult given that most of the archaeological sites are underwater, the recently proposed theory does provide a new framework.&nbsp;

The USGS scientist also noted that the sea ice highway isn’t mutually exclusive with other human migrations which took place later since their models show the Alaskan current had calmed down by 14,000 years ago, making it easier for people to travel by boat along the coast.

(With inputs from agencies)

How and when did humans get to North America? It is arguably one of the most hotly debated topics in archaeology. There have been many theories and studies over the years, and a recent study suggests that sea ice may have played a role in one way for people to move farther south.

How and when did humans get to North America? It is arguably one of the most hotly debated topics in archaeology. There have been many theories and studies over the years, and a recent study suggests that sea ice may have played a role in one way for people to move farther south. Traditionally, scientists have believed that around 13,000 years ago, Stone Age hunters made their way across a land bridge between eastern Siberia and western Alaska and eventually walked their way to an ice-free corridor that briefly opened between ice sheets during this time. However, recent findings, including human footprints in New Mexico which date back to 23,000 years have once again reignited the debate since the discoveries suggest that people made their way onto the continent much earlier. What does the recent study propose? Research presented on December 15 at the American Geophysical Union Annual Meeting (AGU23) suggests that sea ice may have been one way for people to move thousands of years ago. ALSO READ | NASA’s tiny telescope discovers seven hot Jupiters millions of light-years away While the idea that early Americans may have travelled along the Pacific Coast isn’t new, the conditions were not exactly favourable. In 2020, researchers noted that freshwater from melting glaciers at the time may have created a strong current which would make it difficult for people to travel along the coast. In line with this, Summer Praetorius the United States Geological Survey (USGS) and her team tried to study climate proxies in ocean sediment from the coast. Archaeologists have previously found evidence of coastal settlements as early as 14,000 years ago. Although most of the data for Praetorius’ study came from tiny, fossilised plankton, researchers also used climate models to check ocean currents at the time. The abundance and chemistry of these organisms helped scientists reconstruct ocean temperatures, salinity, and sea ice cover. What did they find? Praetorious’ team found that ocean currents were twice the strength they are today at the height of the last glacial maximum around 20,000 years ago due to glacial winds and lower sea levels, conditions which would have made travelling by boat nearly impossible. ALSO READ | ISS astronaut snaps photos of icebergs - a reminder of climate change Therefore, Praetorius suggests that since people back then who were adapted to the cold, would “rather than having to paddle against this horrible glacial current, maybe they were using the sea ice as a platform.” Similar to how people living in the Arctic travel along sea ice on dog sleds and snowmobiles. Early Americans could have used the ‘sea ice highway’ to get around and hunt marine mammals, slowly making their way into North America in the process, said Praetorius. While proving this will be difficult given that most of the archaeological sites are underwater, the recently proposed theory does provide a new framework. The USGS scientist also noted that the sea ice highway isn’t mutually exclusive with other human migrations which took place later since their models show the Alaskan current had calmed down by 14,000 years ago, making it easier for people to travel by boat along the coast. (With inputs from agencies)

Study suggests first people reached North America via ‘sea ice highway’ around 24,000 years ago

Scientists have warned that the Arctic has hidden beneath its frozen ground a methane monster that is threatening to show its ugly head. 
 
Scientists are still unaware of how big the threat is and who will suffer the most, however, what remains clear is that the permanently frozen soil – which is called permafrost – has been melting amid increasing temperatures and further threatening to release massive amounts of methane, which is an extremely potent fossil fuel, from its icy prison. 
 
While trying to understand the methane's deep distribution in the Norwegian archipelago of Svalbard, the scientists have figured out a scary new truth.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-what-will-happen-if-global-heating-target-of-15c-is-missed-669445">Explained: What will happen if global heating target of 1.5C is missed?</a>

The researchers in Norway while analysing the data from eight exploration wells – which were drilled in the local permafrost by fossil fuel companies – have discovered that half of them were filled with substantial amounts of methane gas.

<h2>What are the chances of methane reaching the ground's surface?</h2>

As per the finding, the deep methane – which is two metres below the frozen ground's surface – is not difficult to find in the archipelago, and carries the chances of easily reaching the surface when 'unlocked'. This also applies to other parts of the Arctic, which also have similar geological origins. 
 
"All the wells that encountered gas accumulations did so by coincidence – by contrast, hydrocarbon exploration wells that specifically target accumulations in more typical settings had a success rate far below 50 per cent," said geologist and lead author Thomas Birchall from the University Center in Svalbard, while speaking to Science Alert. 
 
"One anecdotal example is from a wellbore that was drilled recently near the airport in Longyearbyen. The drillers heard a bubbling sound coming from the well, so we decided to have a look, armed with rudimentary alarms designed for detecting explosive levels of methane – which were immediately triggered when we held them over the wellbore,” he added.

Watch:&nbsp;COP28 Summit: 200 countries to hash out solutions for climate change

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Even after fossil fuel companies carried out drilling for more than 50 years, this is the first study which systematically analysed the amount of methane gas lying at the base of Svalbard's permafrost. 
 
As of now, there is no clear estimate of how much methane has been leaking from Arctic permafrost. The current research has been carried out in Svalbard and is based on data collected from 18 hydrocarbon exploration wells, 500 coal exploration bores, and 10 scientific boreholes.

(With inputs from agencies)

Scientists have warned that the Arctic has hidden beneath its frozen ground a methane monster that is threatening to show its ugly head. Scientists are still unaware of how big the threat is and who will suffer the most, however, what remains clear is that the permanently frozen soil – which is called permafrost – has been melting amid increasing temperatures and further threatening to release massive amounts of methane, which is an extremely potent fossil fuel, from its icy prison.

Scientists have warned that the Arctic has hidden beneath its frozen ground a methane monster that is threatening to show its ugly head. Scientists are still unaware of how big the threat is and who will suffer the most, however, what remains clear is that the permanently frozen soil – which is called permafrost – has been melting amid increasing temperatures and further threatening to release massive amounts of methane, which is an extremely potent fossil fuel, from its icy prison. While trying to understand the methane's deep distribution in the Norwegian archipelago of Svalbard, the scientists have figured out a scary new truth. Also read: Explained: What will happen if global heating target of 1.5C is missed? The researchers in Norway while analysing the data from eight exploration wells – which were drilled in the local permafrost by fossil fuel companies – have discovered that half of them were filled with substantial amounts of methane gas. What are the chances of methane reaching the ground's surface? As per the finding, the deep methane – which is two metres below the frozen ground's surface – is not difficult to find in the archipelago, and carries the chances of easily reaching the surface when 'unlocked'. This also applies to other parts of the Arctic, which also have similar geological origins. "All the wells that encountered gas accumulations did so by coincidence – by contrast, hydrocarbon exploration wells that specifically target accumulations in more typical settings had a success rate far below 50 per cent," said geologist and lead author Thomas Birchall from the University Center in Svalbard, while speaking to Science Alert. "One anecdotal example is from a wellbore that was drilled recently near the airport in Longyearbyen. The drillers heard a bubbling sound coming from the well, so we decided to have a look, armed with rudimentary alarms designed for detecting explosive levels of methane – which were immediately triggered when we held them over the wellbore,” he added. Watch: COP28 Summit: 200 countries to hash out solutions for climate change Even after fossil fuel companies carried out drilling for more than 50 years, this is the first study which systematically analysed the amount of methane gas lying at the base of Svalbard's permafrost. As of now, there is no clear estimate of how much methane has been leaking from Arctic permafrost. The current research has been carried out in Svalbard and is based on data collected from 18 hydrocarbon exploration wells, 500 coal exploration bores, and 10 scientific boreholes. (With inputs from agencies)

Scientists warn methane monster lurking beneath Arctic's frozen ground

Humanity will always remember the coronavirus pandemic which has subsided now but caused agony while it was raging, killing millions and leaving a million others with symptoms of long-Covid. But are we ready to face such pandemics again?&nbsp;

A French virologist has raised concerns over his discovery of viruses frozen thousands of years ago, but remain alive. He said that those frozen viruses might re-emerge to threaten humanity. If it happens, it will be because of global warming due to the result of climate change.&nbsp;

Virologist Jean-Michel Claverie found viruses frozen for as long as 50,000 years in places such as the Siberian permafrost which remain&nbsp;infectious.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/study-reveals-22bn-people-in-india-pak-to-face-deadly-heat-if-global-temperatures-rise-by-2-degrees-celsius-644880">2.2 billion people in India, Pak to face deadly heat waves if global temperatures rise by 2 degrees</a>&nbsp;

Bloomberg reported on Monday (Oct 9) that in an interview, at his laboratory in the Luminy campus of Aix-Marseille University, France, Claverie said: "With climate change, we are used to thinking of dangers coming from the south." He referred to the spread of vector-borne diseases from warmer tropical regions.&nbsp;

He added, "Now, we realise there might be some danger coming from the north as the permafrost thaws and frees microbes, bacteria and viruses."&nbsp;

Scientists fear that the Arctic could be ice-free in summers by the 2030s amid climate change as&nbsp; the planet is already 1.2 degrees Celsius warmer than pre-industrial levels.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/the-amazon-may-still-have-thousands-of-ancient-structures-beneath-it-study-645076">The Amazon may still have thousands of ancient structures beneath it</a>&nbsp;

Global average temperatures from January to September were 1.4 degrees Celsius higher than 1850-1900, which is almost breaching the 1.5C warming goal of the 2015 Paris Agreement, the Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S) said in a report.&nbsp;

That threshold was the more ambitious target of the accord and is seen as essential to avoiding the most catastrophic consequences of climate change.&nbsp;

The January-September average global temperature was 0.05C higher than the same nine-month period in 2016, the warmest year recorded so far.&nbsp;

The El Nino phenomenon, which warms waters in the southern Pacific and stokes hotter weather beyond, is likely to see 2023 becoming the hottest year on record in the next three months.&nbsp;

Claverie's documentation of viruses raised concerns that a rise in global temperature will release dormant pathogens, which are a lesser explored danger.&nbsp;

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Humanity will always remember the coronavirus pandemic which has subsided now but caused agony while it was raging, killing millions and leaving a million others with symptoms of long-Covid.

Humanity will always remember the coronavirus pandemic which has subsided now but caused agony while it was raging, killing millions and leaving a million others with symptoms of long-Covid. But are we ready to face such pandemics again? A French virologist has raised concerns over his discovery of viruses frozen thousands of years ago, but remain alive. He said that those frozen viruses might re-emerge to threaten humanity. If it happens, it will be because of global warming due to the result of climate change. Virologist Jean-Michel Claverie found viruses frozen for as long as 50,000 years in places such as the Siberian permafrost which remain infectious. Also read: 2.2 billion people in India, Pak to face deadly heat waves if global temperatures rise by 2 degrees Bloomberg reported on Monday (Oct 9) that in an interview, at his laboratory in the Luminy campus of Aix-Marseille University, France, Claverie said: "With climate change, we are used to thinking of dangers coming from the south." He referred to the spread of vector-borne diseases from warmer tropical regions. He added, "Now, we realise there might be some danger coming from the north as the permafrost thaws and frees microbes, bacteria and viruses." Scientists fear that the Arctic could be ice-free in summers by the 2030s amid climate change as the planet is already 1.2 degrees Celsius warmer than pre-industrial levels. Also read: The Amazon may still have thousands of ancient structures beneath it Global average temperatures from January to September were 1.4 degrees Celsius higher than 1850-1900, which is almost breaching the 1.5C warming goal of the 2015 Paris Agreement, the Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S) said in a report. That threshold was the more ambitious target of the accord and is seen as essential to avoiding the most catastrophic consequences of climate change. The January-September average global temperature was 0.05C higher than the same nine-month period in 2016, the warmest year recorded so far. The El Nino phenomenon, which warms waters in the southern Pacific and stokes hotter weather beyond, is likely to see 2023 becoming the hottest year on record in the next three months. Claverie's documentation of viruses raised concerns that a rise in global temperature will release dormant pathogens, which are a lesser explored danger. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Will thawing Siberian permafrost bring ancient outbreaks back to life?

Sergei Shoigu, the Russian defense minister, visited troops stationed in the Arctic and plans "to defend specially important installations" in this vital region, his ministry announced on Saturday. In order to tour Novaya Zemlya in Russia's far north, Shoigu was joined by Alexey Likhachev, head of the government-owned nuclear power firm Rosatom, according to a statement.

Defence minister Shoigu accompanied by Rosatom head Alexey Likhachev

Russian Defence Ministry said on Saturday (August 12) that Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu inspected Russian troop and military preparedness in the Arctic " "to defend specially important installations" in this strategic zone.

The statement from the ministry said that Shoigu was accompanied by Alexey Likhachev, who is the head of state nuclear company Rosatom. Shoigu visited Novaya Zemlya which is in Russia's extreme north.

The defence minister also inspected a testing site for nuclear weapons used during the Soviet era, &nbsp;where "advanced tests for military weapons and equipment" were taking place, the defence ministry said, without giving details.

Ukraine has launched its highly anticipated push in June after stockpiling Western weapons. However, it has struggled to make any major gains in the face of stiff Russian resistance.

Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24 last year. It had already strengthened its military presence in the Arctic before the commencement of what it calls 'special military operation' in Ukraine.

Russia has rehabilitated Soviet-era bases and deployed weapons and anti-aerial S-400 systems in the region, which has vast reserves of hydrocarbons and can serve as a major maritime route between Europe and Asia due to global warming and melting glaciers.

Two countries in this region - Finland and Sweden - grown close to the western military alliance NATO. Russia views such developments as threat to its security.

Finland joined the alliance in April and Sweden is expected to be formally admitted in the coming months.

Russia meanwhile said on Saturday that it shot down 20 unmanned drone sent by Ukraine near the Crimean peninsula. According to information released by the Russian defence ministry on Telegram, 14 drones were shot down by Russian air defence systems. Six more drones were shot down using electronic warfare.

There were no casualties or damage, said the ministry.

Governor of Kaluga region, about 150 kilometres southwest of Moscow said that a drone was also intercepted in the region.&nbsp;

On Friday officials in Moscow said that they had destroyed a drone that was targetting the Russian capital. The attack was latest in series of attacks on Moscow in recent days.

In July, Ukrainian drone strikes on Crimea blew up an ammunition depot and damaged the bridge across the Kerch Strait linking the peninsula to Russia's mainland.

Crimea was annexed by Russia in 2014.

In Ukraine, Russian attacks on Saturday killed a policeman and injured 12 other people in the southern Zaporizhzhia region.

A man was also killed in the Kharkiv region, according to local authorities.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Russian Defence Ministry said on Saturday (August 12) that Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu inspected Russian troop and military preparedness in the Arctic " "to defend specially important installations" in this strategic zone.

Russian Defence Ministry said on Saturday (August 12) that Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu inspected Russian troop and military preparedness in the Arctic " "to defend specially important installations" in this strategic zone. The statement from the ministry said that Shoigu was accompanied by Alexey Likhachev, who is the head of state nuclear company Rosatom. Shoigu visited Novaya Zemlya which is in Russia's extreme north. The defence minister also inspected a testing site for nuclear weapons used during the Soviet era, where "advanced tests for military weapons and equipment" were taking place, the defence ministry said, without giving details. Ukraine has launched its highly anticipated push in June after stockpiling Western weapons. However, it has struggled to make any major gains in the face of stiff Russian resistance. Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24 last year. It had already strengthened its military presence in the Arctic before the commencement of what it calls 'special military operation' in Ukraine. Russia has rehabilitated Soviet-era bases and deployed weapons and anti-aerial S-400 systems in the region, which has vast reserves of hydrocarbons and can serve as a major maritime route between Europe and Asia due to global warming and melting glaciers. Two countries in this region - Finland and Sweden - grown close to the western military alliance NATO. Russia views such developments as threat to its security. Finland joined the alliance in April and Sweden is expected to be formally admitted in the coming months. Russia meanwhile said on Saturday that it shot down 20 unmanned drone sent by Ukraine near the Crimean peninsula. According to information released by the Russian defence ministry on Telegram, 14 drones were shot down by Russian air defence systems. Six more drones were shot down using electronic warfare. There were no casualties or damage, said the ministry. Governor of Kaluga region, about 150 kilometres southwest of Moscow said that a drone was also intercepted in the region. On Friday officials in Moscow said that they had destroyed a drone that was targetting the Russian capital. The attack was latest in series of attacks on Moscow in recent days. In July, Ukrainian drone strikes on Crimea blew up an ammunition depot and damaged the bridge across the Kerch Strait linking the peninsula to Russia's mainland. Crimea was annexed by Russia in 2014. In Ukraine, Russian attacks on Saturday killed a policeman and injured 12 other people in the southern Zaporizhzhia region. A man was also killed in the Kharkiv region, according to local authorities. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Russia's defence minister inspects military preparedness in the Arctic

There can be no sea ice left in the Arctic roughly a decade earlier than expected, warned scientists in another sign of the climate crisis accelerating faster than expected as pollution continues to heat the planet.

Journal Nature Communications published a new study on Tuesday which stated that Arctic sea ice is likely to completely disappear during the month of September in the 2030s.&nbsp;

The scientists stated that even if planet-heating pollution is significantly reduced, the sea ice in the Arctic may still disappear in summer by the 2050s.

The changes from 1979 to 2019 were analysed by the researchers, as they compared different satellite data and climate models to understand how Arctic sea ice was changing.

It was understood that sea ice was declining largely because of human-caused, planet-heating pollution, and Arctic sea ice melting trends were underestimated by the previous models.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/soviet-era-rocket-makes-re-entry-to-earth-near-the-arctic-564684">Soviet-era rocket launched in 1980 makes re-entry, falls in Arctic region of Russia</a>

“We were surprised to find that the ice-free Arctic will be there in summer irrespective of our effort at reducing emissions, which was not expected,” stated Seung-Ki Min, lead author of the study and professor at Pohang University of Science and Technology in South Korea, while speaking to CNN.

During the winter, Arctic ice builds up and then melts in the summer months, generally hitting its lowest levels in September, before the cycle starts again.

"Once Arctic summers become ice-free, the buildup of sea ice in the colder seasons will be much slower," Min stated.&nbsp;

With a ‘higher emissions pathway’, &nbsp;in which fossil fuels continue to be burned and levels of planet-warming pollution continue to increase, the study emphasises on complete loss of sea ice in the Arctic from August until as late as October before the 2080s, said Min.&nbsp;

<h2>Study in contrast with the UN’s report&nbsp;</h2>

The findings of the study are in contrast with the UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change’s 2021 state-of-the-science report which stated that the Arctic would be “practically ice-free near mid-century under intermediate and high greenhouse gas emissions scenarios.”

Min said that the new study shows that ice-free Arctic can occur 10 years earlier than expected, regardless of emission scenarios.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Arctic is warming quadruple times faster than the world, research tells

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Researcher with the Finnish Meteorological Institute and the 2022 study's lead author Mika Rantanen said that the study benefited from “novel and state-of-the-art methodology” for predicting when the Arctic will go ice-free.

“The methodology is very careful and brings a high degree of certainty in the attribution,” stated Rantanen, who was not a part of the study.&nbsp;

“The most striking result is not that the sea ice loss is attributed to greenhouse gas increases, which was already largely known, but that they project the ice-free Arctic earlier than previously thought by about a decade," he added.&nbsp;

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The ice-free conditions will impact Arctic indigenous communities as their hunting and traveling will be affected. Animals that depend on sea ice will feel the impact.&nbsp;“As Arctic warming is enhanced, permafrost will also melt earlier and many species, including polar bears, walruses and reindeer, will have trouble surviving,” added Min. 
 
 
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There can be no sea ice left in the Arctic roughly a decade earlier than expected, warned scientists in another sign of the climate crisis accelerating faster than expected as pollution continues to heat the planet.

There can be no sea ice left in the Arctic roughly a decade earlier than expected, warned scientists in another sign of the climate crisis accelerating faster than expected as pollution continues to heat the planet. Journal Nature Communications published a new study on Tuesday which stated that Arctic sea ice is likely to completely disappear during the month of September in the 2030s. The scientists stated that even if planet-heating pollution is significantly reduced, the sea ice in the Arctic may still disappear in summer by the 2050s. The changes from 1979 to 2019 were analysed by the researchers, as they compared different satellite data and climate models to understand how Arctic sea ice was changing. It was understood that sea ice was declining largely because of human-caused, planet-heating pollution, and Arctic sea ice melting trends were underestimated by the previous models. ALSO READ | Soviet-era rocket launched in 1980 makes re-entry, falls in Arctic region of Russia “We were surprised to find that the ice-free Arctic will be there in summer irrespective of our effort at reducing emissions, which was not expected,” stated Seung-Ki Min, lead author of the study and professor at Pohang University of Science and Technology in South Korea, while speaking to CNN. During the winter, Arctic ice builds up and then melts in the summer months, generally hitting its lowest levels in September, before the cycle starts again. "Once Arctic summers become ice-free, the buildup of sea ice in the colder seasons will be much slower," Min stated. With a ‘higher emissions pathway’, in which fossil fuels continue to be burned and levels of planet-warming pollution continue to increase, the study emphasises on complete loss of sea ice in the Arctic from August until as late as October before the 2080s, said Min. Study in contrast with the UN’s report The findings of the study are in contrast with the UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change’s 2021 state-of-the-science report which stated that the Arctic would be “practically ice-free near mid-century under intermediate and high greenhouse gas emissions scenarios.” Min said that the new study shows that ice-free Arctic can occur 10 years earlier than expected, regardless of emission scenarios. WATCH | Arctic is warming quadruple times faster than the world, research tells Researcher with the Finnish Meteorological Institute and the 2022 study's lead author Mika Rantanen said that the study benefited from “novel and state-of-the-art methodology” for predicting when the Arctic will go ice-free. “The methodology is very careful and brings a high degree of certainty in the attribution,” stated Rantanen, who was not a part of the study. “The most striking result is not that the sea ice loss is attributed to greenhouse gas increases, which was already largely known, but that they project the ice-free Arctic earlier than previously thought by about a decade," he added. The ice-free conditions will impact Arctic indigenous communities as their hunting and traveling will be affected. Animals that depend on sea ice will feel the impact. “As Arctic warming is enhanced, permafrost will also melt earlier and many species, including polar bears, walruses and reindeer, will have trouble surviving,” added Min. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Arctic could be ice-free in summer by 2030s. Previous models underestimated trends, say experts

China and Russia have signed a memorandum of understanding on strengthening maritime law enforcement cooperation. But the west is worried that Moscow and Beijing can use the arctic for military purposes. Experts say that it would be interesting to see how NATO responds to Russia and China's challenge at the North Pole.

Is the Russia-Ukraine war spilling over?

Finland's accession into the NATO military alliance has changed the security framework of the Arctic on a very fundamental level. Although initially reluctant, Russia has now inked a historic maritime security deal with China. And what this means is that Moscow and Beijing are now joining hands to take on the NATO presence over the Arctic ice. The Arctic council has 8 nations & If Sweden too joins the NATO military alliance, then 7 of the 8 nations of the Arctic council will be a part of the NATO military alliance. So how is Russia planning to take on the NATO military alliance in one of the coldest regions of the earth? Mohammed Saleh gets you the details.

Russia joins hands with China to push NATO out of the Arctic circle

Russia and China have signed a deal on a Maritime Law. Is this Russia and China's attempt at dominating The Arctic? Molly Gambhir brings you a report.

Gravitas: Do Russia, China want to dominate the Arctic?

China and Russia signed a memorandum of understanding on strengthening maritime law enforcement cooperation, Chinese state media said on Wednesday.

The coast guard of the People's Republic of China and the Federal Security Service of the Russian Federation signed the agreement, state media said.

According to media reports, the agreement was signed in the Russian city of Murmansk and highlights joint efforts by the countries to combat terrorism, illegal migration, smuggling of drugs and weapons, as well as stopping illegal fishing.

China's state broadcaster CCTV said that the agreement was inked after a two-day meeting with Russian and Chinese sides. The meeting concluded on Tuesday.

The Chinese side was represented by coastguard chief Yu Zhing while Vladimir Grigorovich Kulishov, first deputy FSB director was present from the Russian side during the signing ceremony.

According to CCTV, the two sides said they would “actively promote maritime law enforcement cooperation, join hands to build a maritime community of destiny, and make every effort to serve the comprehensive strategic partnership of cooperation between China and Russia in the new era”

Both countries reportedly said that that they aim to implement the consensus reached by presidents of both nations as they met earlier this year.

As they signed the joint statement, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin had described ties between the two countries as a "no-limits" partnership.

In Murmansk, when the two countries were holding discussions on maritime cooperation, the Chinese delegation also observed a maritime exercise carried out by Russian forces.

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China and Russia signed a memorandum of understanding on strengthening maritime law enforcement cooperation, Chinese state media said on Wednesday. The coast guard of the People's Republic of China and the Federal Security Service of the Russian Federation signed the agreement, state media said.

China and Russia signed a memorandum of understanding on strengthening maritime law enforcement cooperation, Chinese state media said on Wednesday. The coast guard of the People's Republic of China and the Federal Security Service of the Russian Federation signed the agreement, state media said. According to media reports, the agreement was signed in the Russian city of Murmansk and highlights joint efforts by the countries to combat terrorism, illegal migration, smuggling of drugs and weapons, as well as stopping illegal fishing. China's state broadcaster CCTV said that the agreement was inked after a two-day meeting with Russian and Chinese sides. The meeting concluded on Tuesday. The Chinese side was represented by coastguard chief Yu Zhing while Vladimir Grigorovich Kulishov, first deputy FSB director was present from the Russian side during the signing ceremony. According to CCTV, the two sides said they would “actively promote maritime law enforcement cooperation, join hands to build a maritime community of destiny, and make every effort to serve the comprehensive strategic partnership of cooperation between China and Russia in the new era” Both countries reportedly said that that they aim to implement the consensus reached by presidents of both nations as they met earlier this year. As they signed the joint statement, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin had described ties between the two countries as a "no-limits" partnership. In Murmansk, when the two countries were holding discussions on maritime cooperation, the Chinese delegation also observed a maritime exercise carried out by Russian forces. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

China and Russia ink maritime cooperation deal in the Arctic

China and Russia recently signed a memorandum of understanding on strengthening maritime law enforcement cooperation. Interestingly, the meeting took place in Murmansk. The city in North-Western Russia is located within the Arctic circle and close to the Finnish border. The Arctic has become an important arena of cooperation between Russia and China, with energy, trade and other factors propelling cooperation. Analysts say the melting of Arctic Sea ice is offering economic and geo-strategic opportunities for China–Russia cooperation. Climate change is making the Arctic more accessible for militaries. Russia has set up a new Arctic command and has opened hundreds of new and former Soviet-era Arctic military sites. These sites include airfields and deep-water ports. China has declared itself a 'near Arctic state' and plans to build the world’s largest icebreaker. Beijing is spending tens of billions of dollars on energy, infrastructure, and research projects in the north.

Russia reopening new & former Soviet-era military sites; Intense military build-up in the Arctic

Scientists are collecting data to know the meaning of climate change for the planet's future. The data tells that the Arctic is warming approximately 4 times faster than the rest of the world with Svalbard's temperature rising to 7 times the global average.

Arctic is warming quadruple times faster than the world, research tells

Russia and India are looking at expanding the use of the Northern Sea shipping route. The shipping route passes through the Artic and the move could include the building of processing facilities as per Russia's Interfax agency. Watch this video for all details.

Russia, India in talks to develop Northern Sea shipping route

The military of Canada recently found evidence of Chinese surveillance in the Arctic. Canadian newspaper The Globe and Mail first reported about the discovery, raising questions about the activities of China in the far north.

The discovery comes in the wake of the United States’ recent allegations against China of sending spy balloons into the US and Canada’s airspace. China has also faced accusations of interference in the Canadian elections. &nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-china-operate-balloons-to-spy-on-several-countries-including-india-and-japan-559989">Did China operate 'balloons' to spy on several countries, including India and Japan?</a>

Last fall, the Canadian military discovered monitoring buoys as part of Operation Limpid, which is the Canadian military’s ongoing mission tasked with identifying threats to the security of the country by surveilling land, sea and air domains.

Canadian Department of National Defence’s spokesperson Daniel Le Bouthillier, in a statement, said, “The Department of National Defence and Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) are fully aware of recent efforts by China to conduct surveillance operations in Canadian airspace and maritime approaches utilising dual-purpose technologies.”

“Under Operation LIMPID, the CAF monitors Canada’s air, land and sea approaches, and since 2022, it has stopped attempts to surveil Canadian territory,” he added. 
Bouthillier did not elaborate on what was discovered. “To ensure the integrity of operations, we are unable to provide further information at this time,” he said.

Retired lieutenant-general Michael Day said that China may have used buoys to monitor the traffic of US nuclear submarines in the Arctic and for mapping ice thickness and seabeds.

WATCH |&nbsp;This World | The China- U.S. 'Spy' Balloon Row

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“China, like most nations, is super interested in the pretty significant changes that are happening up north. They do not have an icebound port, but they do have a rapidly growing icebreaking fleet,” he stated. He stated that travelling through the Arctic would have been significantly shorter for China’s ships in comparison to navigating around South America’s southern tip.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The military of Canada recently found evidence of Chinese surveillance in the Arctic. Canadian newspaper The Globe and Mail first reported about the discovery, raising questions about the activities of China in the far north.

The military of Canada recently found evidence of Chinese surveillance in the Arctic. Canadian newspaper The Globe and Mail first reported about the discovery, raising questions about the activities of China in the far north. The discovery comes in the wake of the United States’ recent allegations against China of sending spy balloons into the US and Canada’s airspace. China has also faced accusations of interference in the Canadian elections. ALSO READ | Did China operate 'balloons' to spy on several countries, including India and Japan? Last fall, the Canadian military discovered monitoring buoys as part of Operation Limpid, which is the Canadian military’s ongoing mission tasked with identifying threats to the security of the country by surveilling land, sea and air domains. Canadian Department of National Defence’s spokesperson Daniel Le Bouthillier, in a statement, said, “The Department of National Defence and Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) are fully aware of recent efforts by China to conduct surveillance operations in Canadian airspace and maritime approaches utilising dual-purpose technologies.” “Under Operation LIMPID, the CAF monitors Canada’s air, land and sea approaches, and since 2022, it has stopped attempts to surveil Canadian territory,” he added. Bouthillier did not elaborate on what was discovered. “To ensure the integrity of operations, we are unable to provide further information at this time,” he said. Retired lieutenant-general Michael Day said that China may have used buoys to monitor the traffic of US nuclear submarines in the Arctic and for mapping ice thickness and seabeds. WATCH | This World | The China- U.S. 'Spy' Balloon Row “China, like most nations, is super interested in the pretty significant changes that are happening up north. They do not have an icebound port, but they do have a rapidly growing icebreaking fleet,” he stated. He stated that travelling through the Arctic would have been significantly shorter for China’s ships in comparison to navigating around South America’s southern tip. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Canada's military discovers evidence of Chinese surveillance in the Arctic

Rocket launches have been going on for decades. But what happens after a single-use rocket does its part? There is no further use of the machinery. Though now international conventions try to lessen the debris around the Earth, it was often a practice of space agencies to leave the defunct rockets in space. These were then fated to revolve around the Earth for long.

A Soviet-era rocket, or whatever remained of it, has finally returned to Earth after spending decades in orbit around the Earth.

The one-and-a-half tonne Soviet Vostok-2M Blok E rocket was used to propel a surveillance satellite in 1980. The rocket made a re-entry in Earth's atmosphere and collapsed near Novoya Zemlya in the Arctic region of Russia. The rocket had to withstand high temperatures as it fell through Earth's atmosphere.

“...It's been totally dead since mid 1980, so no way to control the re-entry,” astronomer and leading orbit watcher Jonathan McDowell explained on Twitter. “Eventually, the orbit shrank due to friction with the atmosphere.”

The 3000-pound rocket was big enough to keep an eye on during its re-entry, but it was not going to pose as much of a threat as Chinese Long March rockets which weigh 20 tonnes. Some of these rockets have made uncontrolled entries&nbsp;in recent times.

Modern rockets are now fitted with separate propellers which help guide them to a predetermined sparsely populated location for safe re-entry. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

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Rocket launches have been going on for decades. But what happens after a single-use rocket does its part? There is no further use of the machinery. Though now international conventions try to lessen the debris around the Earth, it was often a practice of space agencies to leave the defunct rockets in space.

Rocket launches have been going on for decades. But what happens after a single-use rocket does its part? There is no further use of the machinery. Though now international conventions try to lessen the debris around the Earth, it was often a practice of space agencies to leave the defunct rockets in space. These were then fated to revolve around the Earth for long. A Soviet-era rocket, or whatever remained of it, has finally returned to Earth after spending decades in orbit around the Earth. The one-and-a-half tonne Soviet Vostok-2M Blok E rocket was used to propel a surveillance satellite in 1980. The rocket made a re-entry in Earth's atmosphere and collapsed near Novoya Zemlya in the Arctic region of Russia. The rocket had to withstand high temperatures as it fell through Earth's atmosphere. “...It's been totally dead since mid 1980, so no way to control the re-entry,” astronomer and leading orbit watcher Jonathan McDowell explained on Twitter. “Eventually, the orbit shrank due to friction with the atmosphere.” The 3000-pound rocket was big enough to keep an eye on during its re-entry, but it was not going to pose as much of a threat as Chinese Long March rockets which weigh 20 tonnes. Some of these rockets have made uncontrolled entries in recent times. Modern rockets are now fitted with separate propellers which help guide them to a predetermined sparsely populated location for safe re-entry. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Soviet-era rocket launched in 1980 makes re-entry, falls in Arctic region of Russia

A powerful Arctic blast across US Northeast sent temperatures plunging perilously below zero degree Celsius. The mercury at New Hampshire, Washington dropped to 105 degrees below zero Fahrenheit (-79 Celsius). In New York, wind-chill warnings were posted. Situation was same in all six New England states - &nbsp;Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, New Hampshire, Vermont and Maine&nbsp;

The National Weather Service (NWS) said the deep freeze would be relatively short-lived, but the combination of numbing cold and biting winds gripping the Northeast would pose life-threatening conditions well into Saturday.

Schools in Boston and Worcester, Massachusetts, New England's two largest cities, were among those closed on Friday over concerns about the risk of hypothermia and frostbite for children walking to school or waiting for buses.

Michelle Wu, Mayor of Boston, declared a state of emergency through Sunday and opened warming centers &nbsp;to help the city's 650,000-plus residents cope. The NWS has termed the current conditions to be a 'once-in-a-generation' chill.

Early on Friday, the arctic surge flowing into the United States from eastern Canada was centered over the US Plains, weather service forecaster Bob Oravec said. Kabetogama, Minnesota, near the Ontario border, was America's coldest spot at 1 pm EST, with a temperature of minus 39 F (-39.5 C).

Sub-freezing, blustery conditions spread eastward through the day, sending wind-chill factors - measuring the combined effect of wind and cold on the body - plunging into the -40s across much of Maine, NWS meteorologist Brian Hurley said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A powerful Arctic blast across US Northeast sent temperatures plunging perilously below zero degree Celsius. The mercury at New Hampshire, Washington dropped to 105 degrees below zero Fahrenheit (-79 Celsius).

A powerful Arctic blast across US Northeast sent temperatures plunging perilously below zero degree Celsius. The mercury at New Hampshire, Washington dropped to 105 degrees below zero Fahrenheit (-79 Celsius). In New York, wind-chill warnings were posted. Situation was same in all six New England states - Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, New Hampshire, Vermont and Maine The National Weather Service (NWS) said the deep freeze would be relatively short-lived, but the combination of numbing cold and biting winds gripping the Northeast would pose life-threatening conditions well into Saturday. Schools in Boston and Worcester, Massachusetts, New England's two largest cities, were among those closed on Friday over concerns about the risk of hypothermia and frostbite for children walking to school or waiting for buses. Michelle Wu, Mayor of Boston, declared a state of emergency through Sunday and opened warming centers to help the city's 650,000-plus residents cope. The NWS has termed the current conditions to be a 'once-in-a-generation' chill. Early on Friday, the arctic surge flowing into the United States from eastern Canada was centered over the US Plains, weather service forecaster Bob Oravec said. Kabetogama, Minnesota, near the Ontario border, was America's coldest spot at 1 pm EST, with a temperature of minus 39 F (-39.5 C). Sub-freezing, blustery conditions spread eastward through the day, sending wind-chill factors - measuring the combined effect of wind and cold on the body - plunging into the -40s across much of Maine, NWS meteorologist Brian Hurley said. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Arctic blast sweeps US Northeast, temperatures plunge drastically

A polar bear reportedly killed a woman and her year-old son in a remote village community of Alaska on Tuesday evening. Authorities revealed that the polar bear entered the community area, and chased some villagers, before brutally attacking the woman and her kid. The bear too ended up losing its life after one of the residents fatally shot the animal following the rampage. The incident took place at 2:30 pm local time on Tuesday in Alaska’s Wales village, the westernmost point of the American mainland that is home to around 170 residents. The state police said the remains of the bodies have been dispatched for autopsy.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Study: Canadian Polar Bears declining at alarming rate&nbsp;

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<h2>Polar bear attack details revealed</h2>

As per the investigators, the victims were 24-year-old Summer Myomick and her son Clyde Ongtowasruk, who were commuting between the community school and clinic during the attack. An Alaska State trooper and an&nbsp;official from the Alaska Department of Fish and Game travelled to Wales to investigate the attack. The state Medical Examiner's Office will examine the bodies and perform the autopsy.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/climate-change-could-wipe-out-polar-bears-by-2100-report-314956">Climate change could wipe out polar bears by 2100: Report</a>

<h2>Bear attacks are on the rise due to climate change</h2>

Fatal polar bear attacks have been rare in the region but a 2017 study found that the trend was rising, owing to the fast-decreasing ice sea which has pushed polar bears towards inland in search of food. Experts worry that encounters between humans and polar bears are expected to rise as the animals are showing signs of starvation following the depletion of sea ice.

Sea ice is necessary for polar bears to relax, reproduce, and reach seals that are their main source of food. Polar bears and numerous other ice-dependent animals are in danger as sea ice recedes year after year. An analysis of polar bear data from northeast Alaska and the Northwest revealed a 40% decline in population from 1,500 to 900 bears between 2001 and 2010.&nbsp;

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A polar bear reportedly killed a woman and her year-old son in a remote village community of Alaska on Tuesday evening. Authorities revealed that the polar bear entered the community area, and chased some villagers, before brutally attacking the woman and her kid.

A polar bear reportedly killed a woman and her year-old son in a remote village community of Alaska on Tuesday evening. Authorities revealed that the polar bear entered the community area, and chased some villagers, before brutally attacking the woman and her kid. The bear too ended up losing its life after one of the residents fatally shot the animal following the rampage. The incident took place at 2:30 pm local time on Tuesday in Alaska’s Wales village, the westernmost point of the American mainland that is home to around 170 residents. The state police said the remains of the bodies have been dispatched for autopsy. Watch: Study: Canadian Polar Bears declining at alarming rate × Polar bear attack details revealed As per the investigators, the victims were 24-year-old Summer Myomick and her son Clyde Ongtowasruk, who were commuting between the community school and clinic during the attack. An Alaska State trooper and an official from the Alaska Department of Fish and Game travelled to Wales to investigate the attack. The state Medical Examiner's Office will examine the bodies and perform the autopsy. Also Read | Climate change could wipe out polar bears by 2100: Report Bear attacks are on the rise due to climate change Fatal polar bear attacks have been rare in the region but a 2017 study found that the trend was rising, owing to the fast-decreasing ice sea which has pushed polar bears towards inland in search of food. Experts worry that encounters between humans and polar bears are expected to rise as the animals are showing signs of starvation following the depletion of sea ice. Sea ice is necessary for polar bears to relax, reproduce, and reach seals that are their main source of food. Polar bears and numerous other ice-dependent animals are in danger as sea ice recedes year after year. An analysis of polar bear data from northeast Alaska and the Northwest revealed a 40% decline in population from 1,500 to 900 bears between 2001 and 2010. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Polar bear kills woman and child in Alaska. Know what's pushing the arctic animal to attack humans

Russia is sending more crude oil produced in the Arctic region to India & China at steeper discounts. This after Europe slammed its doors shut on Russian supplies last month. Watch this video for all the details.

Why is Russia sending more Arctic oil to India & China?

The Arctic is getting wetter for a long time now. Scientists could not identify any trends in the amount of snow rain and freezing rain across the region but that has changed now. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, many regions are likely to transform from snowfall to rainfall.

WION Climate Tracker | NOAA: Arctic to transform from snowfall to rainfall

While the world is focused on the Ukraine war, there is another theatre which is quietly heating up. We are talking about the Arctic where Russia is making deep forests.

West-Russia rivalry: Arctic the new battlefield, Putin inaugurates nuclear-powered icebreakers

When you think about the Arctic, the first image which comes to mind is that of glaciers, polar bears and cold weather. But what if I tell you that in recent years rising temperatures have sparked more frequent wildfires in the Artic? Watch this video to know more.

WION Climate Tracker: A warm Arctic, wracked by wildfires

An expedition by scientists is on in the middle of the Arctic for four weeks. The 21 member team also includes an artist who aims to record and preserve the soundscape of melting icebergs.

WION Climate Tracker: 21-member team installs hydrophones in Arctic

The world is heating up and as the time passes by the climate seems to get warmer every second but do you know that according to new research, the warming up of the climate could bring viruses in the Arctic into contact with new environment.

WION Climate Tracker: Next pandemic to come from melting glaciers? New virus threat as Arctic melts

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg has called for more investment in the Arctic as Moscow reopens hundreds of Soviet-era military sites.

WION Fineprint | NATO chief warns about Russia's Arctic military build-up

The United States found itself in a pickle last week when Russia and China called for closer ties and since it has been trying to cover all its bases like the Arctic.

Russia-China ties raise eyebrows; West wary of Russia and China's plans for Arctic

Jens Stoltenberg&nbsp;stated that the capabilities of Russia in the far north "are a strategic challenge for the whole alliance" due to the country's massive military buildup in the area.&nbsp;This includes, according to him, using the high north "as a testbed for the most advanced weapons, including hypersonic missiles," and reopening "hundreds of new and former Soviet-era Arctic military sites."&nbsp;

As he concluded a trip to Canada that included a tour of its Arctic defences, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg emphasised the need to increase security along the alliance's northern flank to deter Russia.&nbsp;

At a press conference held at an air base in Cold Lake, Alberta, Stoltenberg stated, "The high north is strategically important for Euro-Atlantic security," emphasising that after the accession of Finland and Sweden, seven of the eight Arctic states will be NATO members.&nbsp;

He also cautioned that the North Pole would be the shortest route for Russian missiles and bombers to reach North America. As a result, NATO and North America both rely heavily on NORAD.&nbsp;

The US-Canadian organisation NORAD stands for North American Aerospace Defense Command.

The head of NATO and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau visited a Cold War-era early warning radar station and saw military drills in the Canadian Arctic.&nbsp;

He stated that the capabilities of Russia in the far north "are a strategic challenge for the whole alliance" due to the country's massive military buildup in the area.&nbsp;

This includes, according to him, using the high north "as a testbed for the most advanced weapons, including hypersonic missiles," and reopening "hundreds of new and former Soviet-era Arctic military sites."&nbsp;

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In addition, Stoltenberg raised alarm over China's intentions to develop the largest icebreaker fleet in the world and its plans to conduct resource exploitation and commerce in the Arctic.

"Beijing and Moscow have pledged to intensify practical cooperation in the Arctic. This forms part of the deepening strategic partnership that challenges our values and our interests, "added Stoltenberg.&nbsp;

He asserted that NATO must react by stepping up its presence in the far north and investing in new tools.&nbsp;

He stated that the increased "security challenges" posed by climate change necessitate a serious reevaluation of NATO's Arctic stance.

( with inputs from agencies) 
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Jens Stoltenberg stated that the capabilities of Russia in the far north "are a strategic challenge for the whole alliance" due to the country's massive military buildup in the area.

Jens Stoltenberg stated that the capabilities of Russia in the far north "are a strategic challenge for the whole alliance" due to the country's massive military buildup in the area. This includes, according to him, using the high north "as a testbed for the most advanced weapons, including hypersonic missiles," and reopening "hundreds of new and former Soviet-era Arctic military sites." As he concluded a trip to Canada that included a tour of its Arctic defences, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg emphasised the need to increase security along the alliance's northern flank to deter Russia. At a press conference held at an air base in Cold Lake, Alberta, Stoltenberg stated, "The high north is strategically important for Euro-Atlantic security," emphasising that after the accession of Finland and Sweden, seven of the eight Arctic states will be NATO members. He also cautioned that the North Pole would be the shortest route for Russian missiles and bombers to reach North America. As a result, NATO and North America both rely heavily on NORAD. The US-Canadian organisation NORAD stands for North American Aerospace Defense Command. The head of NATO and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau visited a Cold War-era early warning radar station and saw military drills in the Canadian Arctic. He stated that the capabilities of Russia in the far north "are a strategic challenge for the whole alliance" due to the country's massive military buildup in the area. This includes, according to him, using the high north "as a testbed for the most advanced weapons, including hypersonic missiles," and reopening "hundreds of new and former Soviet-era Arctic military sites." Also Read: Jihadist ambush on gold mine vehicle convoy kills seven in Burkina Faso In addition, Stoltenberg raised alarm over China's intentions to develop the largest icebreaker fleet in the world and its plans to conduct resource exploitation and commerce in the Arctic. "Beijing and Moscow have pledged to intensify practical cooperation in the Arctic. This forms part of the deepening strategic partnership that challenges our values and our interests, "added Stoltenberg. He asserted that NATO must react by stepping up its presence in the far north and investing in new tools. He stated that the increased "security challenges" posed by climate change necessitate a serious reevaluation of NATO's Arctic stance. ( with inputs from agencies)

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