Drift ice

[1] Wind and currents can pile up that ice to form ridges up to dozens of metres in thickness.

These represent a challenge for icebreakers and offshore structures operating in cold oceans and seas.

[4][5] Drift ice affects: Drift ice can exert tremendous forces when rammed against structures, and can shear off rudders and propellers from ships and strong structures anchored to the shore, such as piers.

Because of vast amounts of water added to or removed from the oceans and atmosphere, the behavior of polar ice packs has a significant impact on global changes in climate.

The Sea of Okhotsk is the southernmost area in the Northern Hemisphere where drift ice may be observed.