A polar bear stands on floating sea ice in the Arctic. The bears rely on sea ice to move throughout their hunting grounds.

As the Arctic ice retreats, scientists warn of a pivotal moment approaching. Could the first ice-free day be just around the corner?

The first ice-free day in the Arctic could happen within three years, according to a new study. The research team used computer models to predict when the first ice-free day could happen in the northernmost ocean.