A rare freeze has returned to the Baltic Sea, creating ice conditions not seen since 2021 across the Polish coastline.
Unprecedented Winter Cold
This winter has been characterized by significant snowfall and temperatures dropping below -20°C. Northern regions have experienced continuous freezing for many days, with temperature anomalies reaching nearly -10/-15°C compared to the 1991-2020 norm.
Baltic Sea Freezes Over
The Baltic Sea has been at the center of attacks from Arctic air masses across Northern Europe. In Estonia, sea ice was so extensive that authorities decided to open a road directly across the frozen Baltic Sea.
Polish Coastline Affected
Poland’s coastline has also experienced freezing, though on a smaller scale. This phenomenon, known as coastal ice, has mainly affected the coastal zone and Puck Bay. The ice is slowly beginning to melt due to warming temperatures, but significant amounts remain, with some areas in Puck Bay stretching to the horizon.
Rare Occurrence
This type of sea freezing happens once every few to several years. The last occurrences were in 2021 and 2018.
