Antarctica Has Gained Ice Between 2021 and 2023 – But It’s Only a Temporary Anomaly
Between 2021 and 2023, Antarctica gained ice. But scientists warn: this is only a short-lived anomaly, not proof that global warming is reversing.
Satellite data reveal a surprising trend
A new study using NASA satellite data has detected an unusual increase in Antarctica’s ice mass during the years 2021 to 2023. At first glance, this may seem surprising given that global temperatures continue to rise. But researchers quickly point out: this is a temporary anomaly, not a sign that climate change is over.
Scientists at Shanghai Tongji University examined over two decades of data collected by the Grace and Grace Follow-On satellites. From 2002 to 2020, Antarctica consistently lost ice, with losses accelerating over time: an average of 81 billion tons annually between 2002 and 2010, rising to 157 billion tons between 2011 and 2020.
Then came the reversal. From 2021 to 2023, the Antarctic ice sheet gained about 119 billion tons per year. Four glaciers in East Antarctica, once shrinking rapidly, suddenly showed significant increases.
What’s behind the ice increase?
The gain is linked to a meteorological anomaly. Heavier than usual snowfall boosted ice volumes. Warmer air can hold more moisture, fueling extreme weather events—including heavy snowstorms. But experts stress this is temporary, not a lasting shift.
“The recent gain only partly offset the long-term losses,” explained Tom Slater, a researcher at the University of Northumbria not involved in the study. “Overall, Earth’s ice continues to melt as glaciers accelerate and flow into ever-warmer oceans.”
Why monitoring Antarctica matters
Antarctica holds the largest ice sheet on Earth, containing about 90% of the planet’s freshwater. Any changes here directly influence global sea levels. Although Antarctic air temperatures have been more stable compared to the Arctic, warning signs are multiplying. In 2023, for instance, Antarctic sea ice hit record lows.
No contradiction with climate change
The short-term rise in ice mass does not disprove global warming. Climate systems are complex, and local variations are normal. What matters is the overall trajectory—and that remains alarming. Despite this anomaly, Antarctica continues to lose vast amounts of ice, threatening sea level rise and global climate stability.