Light ice conditions have been observed in the White Sea, which is unusual for this time of year, the Arktika-Info news agency reports, quoting the press office of the Northern Directorate for Hydrometeorology and Environmental Monitoring.

“Early March brought strong southerly winds and exceptionally warm weather for this time of year, which has led to outward ice drift and the White Sea becoming almost entirely clear of ice two months earlier than on average,” the press statement reads.

The last time similar ice conditions were observed in the White Sea was in 1967.

Experts warn winter fishermen that the expected stormy weather and the westerly winds may result in the partial deterioration of fast ice from the seaward edge of the Northern Dvina’s delta and the submersion of ice floes.