-Submitted by David Drumm (Nal), Guest Blogger

We have previously discussed, here, the data from NASA’s Goddard Institute of Space Studies showing that 2010 as the warmest climate year on record. We now have confirmation from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). According to NOAA scientists, 2010 tied 2005 as the warmest year of the global surface temperature record, with record keeping beginning in 1880.

Also, Global Historical Climatology Network states that 2010 was the wettest year on record, in terms of global average precipitation.

The map below shows the change on a statewide basis:

The polar bear population is showing the effects of loss of habitat, i.e. sea ice. The southern Beaufort Sea area contains one of the most extensively studied polar bear populations on the planet. The survival rate of cubs has dropped and males are experiencing lower body weight. Data from this population helped lead the the U.S. declaring the polar bear a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act. The western Hudson Bay population has dropped from 1200 in 1987 to 950 individuals in 2004.

Of the 19 subpopulations of polar bears:

• 8 are declining
• 3 are stable
• 1 is increasing
• 7 have insufficient data

H/T: NOAA, Polar Bears International, IUCN/SSC Polar Bear Specialist Group.