Weddell Polynya

A polynya is an area of open water within sea ice. The Weddell Polynya is a large, semipermanent polynya located in the Weddell Sea, which is an embayment of the Southern Ocean off the coast of Antarctica.123

Polynyas are generally categorized into two types: coastal and open-ocean. Coastal polynyas are typically found near the shore, often caused by persistent local winds. Open-ocean polynyas, like the Weddell Polynya, form within the ice cover and are believed to be caused by the upwelling of warmer deep water.2

The Weddell Sea itself is known for being heavily iced, which historically made exploration difficult. Polynyas, including those in the Weddell Sea, are important ecosystems supporting various forms of marine life and are also studied for their effects on ocean circulation and the atmosphere.32