Sweden has recorded the coldest start to the year since 2010, according to temperature data from the Swedish Meteorological and Hydrological Institute (SMHI) covering the period from January 1 to February 18. This unusual cold is further illustrated through satellite imagery, highlighting larger than usual ice expanses and ice formations in areas that usually remain unfrozen. Despite the colder conditions, SMHI has classified the season as a normal ice winter, indicating a broader contextual understanding of seasonal variations.

On February 15, 2026, the extent of sea ice was measured at 178,000 square kilometers, marking the highest level since 2011. During that year, the maximum ice extent reached 300,000 square kilometers and was characterized as a severe ice winter. The current figures show a stark contrast, prompting meteorologist Nitzan Cohen from SVT to explain that the lower ice levels this year can be attributed to a milder December 2025, which set the stage for the winter's ice conditions.

The article emphasizes the importance of monitoring ice coverage, as it can reflect broader environmental changes. Observing ice levels around Sweden's coastal waters, as well as in the Mälaren and Vänern lakes, provides valuable insights into how climate variables interact and affect local ecosystems. In an era of increasingly unpredictable weather patterns, understanding these fluctuations becomes crucial for both environmental science and winter-related economic activities.