The sub-Antarctic islands are increasingly warming in the 21st century

Sub-Antarctic islands, including Heard and McDonald Islands, are experiencing accelerated warming trends in the 21st century. This study confirms that air temperatures across these remote islands—located near the Antarctic Polar Front—have risen significantly, driven by anthropogenic influences such as the positive phase of the Southern Annular Mode (SAM) and intensified westerly winds. While mid-to-late 20th-century warming was previously documented, this research provides updated assessments of recent trends, suggesting continued warming through the century. The findings highlight potential disruptions to landscape and ecosystem processes, though specific impacts remain speculative at this stage.

Nel, W., Hedding, D. W., & Rudolph, E. M. (2023). The sub-Antarctic islands are increasingly warming in the 21st century. Antarctic Science, 35(2), 124–126. https://doi.org/10.1017/s0954102023000056