From [CNN.com](http://www.cnn.com/2007/TECH/science/12/11/arctic.melt.ap/index.html:)

An already relentless melting of the Arctic greatly accelerated this summer, a warning sign that some scientists worry could mean global warming has passed an ominous tipping point. One even speculated that summer sea ice would be gone in five years… This week, after reviewing his own new data, NASA climate scientist Jay Zwally said: “At this rate, the Arctic Ocean could be nearly ice-free at the end of summer by 2012, much faster than previous predictions.”

This is quite alarming. If it’s true, we’re going to be in for some serious devistation.