| Abstract | This report provides an analysis of seasonal first-year (FY) level ice thickness and snow cover, air temperature, and ice strength relevant to ships operating in Canadian waters. All available ice thickness measurement program data from Environment and Climate Change Canada is assessed. In southern regions where measurement programs ended in 2002, the analysis is supplemented by predictions of ice thickness from temperature data. Average and peak values of ice thickness are assessed at 10 environmental measurement stations distributed across the Arctic, and at 20 sites south of 60°N (Newfoundland and Labrador coast, Gulf of St. Lawrence, St. Lawrence River, and Great Lakes). Trends in yearly maximum FY ice thickness are examined, and seasonal variations in thickness, air temperature and ice flexural strength are assessed. This analysis gives an overview of the latest data and estimates of level, landfast ice to be expected in shipping routes of interest to Canadian Coast Guard |
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