Since mid-July, temperatures in some areas of Antarctica have risen by about 100C above normal (pictured), and the unusually warm weather could continue into the first half of August. The latest data released by the Antarctic Meteorological Data and Research Center at the University of Wisconsin-Madison shows that in the eastern Antarctic regions - where the most unusual conditions are taking place, with temperatures normally ranging from -500C to -600C - temperatures have now risen to nearly -250C to -300C.

This is the second significant heatwave recorded in Antarctica in the past two years. The record-breaking heatwave is hitting the coldest place on Earth at what should be the coldest time of year, even as much of the continent remains below freezing, leaving scientists worried about the future consequences for the continent and millions of people around the world. Scientists say it is an alarming phenomenon in a place that has the potential to raise sea levels more than anywhere else on Earth as fossil fuel pollution continues to push up global temperatures.

KHANH HUNG