State of the Climate 2012: [Antarctica] Sea ice extent and concentration
Antarctic sea ice in 2012 
was characterized by generally 
above-average area and extent 
throughout the year, compared 
to the 1981–2010 mean, with the 
exception of late May through 
early June and late November 
through much of December 
(Fig. 6.8a). A new maximum sea 
ice extent was recorded during 
September (since satellite records 
began in 1978; see http:// 
nsidc.org/arcticseaicenews). 
Regionally, the pattern of sea 
ice variability throughout the 
year was closely associated with 
variations in large-scale atmospheric 
and oceanic circulation 
patterns and related local sea 
surface temperatures.