Predicted Arctic sea ice cover in the GEOS S2S system, version 3

Arctic sea ice extent is a significant climate variable and a key indicator of Arctic conditions. With less sea ice, there is an expectation of an increased human presence in the Arctic related to commerce, military, and indigenous activities. Seasonal predictions of the sea ice cover are important for assessing our understanding of the associated physical processes, and for the adequate planning of various endeavors. Many centers continue to provide routine seasonal forecasts of sea ice extent; methods continue to be explored.