Nico DeGrazia

2.20.20

Antarctica’s Record High Temperature

On Thursday, February 6th, Antarctica reached a temperature of 64.9 degrees Fahrenheit. This is presumed to be its highest known recorded temperature. This alarmed scientists around the world, as well as Whitney Young students. Evie Calderon ‘20 stated, “I didn’t know Antarctica could even get that hot.” This astronomical temperature was recorded by Argentinian meteorologists. The United Nations verified that their findings were accurate. This temperature broke the existing 63.5-degree record set back in 2015. This record temperature was recorded on Seymour Island, off of the coast of the Antarctic peninsula. Nasa has stated that Antarctica’s two fastest melting glaciers have enough ice to raise sea levels by four feet. This comes after January 2020 was stated to be the hottest January in 141 years. Scientists surmised that the cause of this event was warm water due to global warming. We have seen a rise in the effects of global warming on our planet lately. This has been seen through frequent natural disasters and unusual weather patterns. Jimmy A. ‘25 said I think we really need to educate people on the climate crisis that is going on as well as teach them the causes of climate change.” Global climate change is caused by the emission of carbon and other greenhouse gases into the Earth’s atmosphere, weakening the ozone layer and exposing the earth to the sun’s rays. These rays are then trapped in the atmosphere, which warms the Earth. Emily Servin’21 states, “It’s really sad how politicians and the government are not listening to the scientists and their research. We need to enact new policies and regulations on greenhouse gas emissions before it’s too late.” Like Emily, I believe we should elect leaders who believe in science and will do what is needed to help keep our planet safe.