"Experts say larger-than-normal hole could cause further warming of Southern Ocean and heighten damaging effects of 2022 Tonga volcano eruption".

"The hole in the ozone layer has begun to form early this year, prompting warnings that a larger-than-average hole may further warm the Southern Ocean while the level of Antarctic sea ice is at a record low.

Satellite data from the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts suggests the hole has already begun to form over Antarctica.

Dr Martin Jucker, a lecturer at the Climate Change Research Centre at the University of New South Wales, said the hole usually began forming at the end of September, peaking in October before closing in November or December.

“Starting in August is certainly very early,” he said. “We don’t usually expect that.”"

Donna Lu reports for the Guardian August 8, 2023. [2]

SEE ALSO:

"Even Frozen Antarctica Is Being Walloped By Climate Extremes, Scientists Find" (AP) [3]