Climate Scientists Chase Arctic Storms North of Svalbard

Climate scientists at the University of Reading, England, are trying to fly small research aircrafts through summer cyclones at very low levels, the BBC reports.

The measurements collected during their flights will build a picture of how storms interact with sea ice.

Specifically, they are mapping how the storms affect the sea ice, and how the roughness, temperature and movement of the ice affect how the storms behave. 

More in-depth knowledge on this interaction can provide more accurate forecasts on Arctic weather and climate. The development of better forecasts is becoming more important as melting sea ice due to climate change is opening up for more shipping in Northern waters.

The scientists also have a hypothesis that the retreat of the ice, as well as the thinner ice being more mobile and dynamic, could affect how Arctic cyclones act.