http://nsidc.org/arcticseaicenews/files/2018/06/Figure3-350×270.png

Average ice cover in the Arctic ocean was lower this May than any other May (except 2016) since accurate satellite records have been available. The sun is now rushing toward the Equinox, which will be reached later this month. The ice will continue to melt until mid- September.

Here are ice levels in the Arcic, contrasted with overall averages, the last few years. and the record breaking year of 2012. 2012 was a true outlier, not a particular bad year until late season storms broke up the icecap just prior to the height of the September melt. Predictions for this year are that the 2012 low ice record will not be broken in September, but that every other year except 2012 will be surpassed.