On Tuesday, this year's icebreaking season officially ended - a month earlier than planned. According to the Swedish Maritime Administration, March's warm temperatures resulted in record-breaking ice break-up.
"From 40–50 centimeters thick ice to no ice at all in just a week or so is remarkable," says Amund Lindberg, business area manager for winter shipping at the Swedish Maritime Administration in a press release.
Almost 1,000 assistance missions were carried out during this year's season, compared to 220 the previous season. In addition to the Swedish Maritime Administration's six icebreakers, two work vessels were also used during the season, as well as several hired resources.
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