Extensive ice cover across the Gulf of Riga
The Gulf of Riga is a shallow, semi-enclosed basin of the Baltic Sea between Latvia and Estonia. Limited water exchange with the wider Baltic Sea, alongside the basin’s modest depth and relatively low salinity make it particularly sensitive to atmospheric conditions, especially during prolonged cold periods. In severe winters, the gulf can freeze almost entirely, with extensive ice cover forming across large areas.
This image, acquired by one of the Copernicus Sentinel-2 satellites on 2 February 2026, shows the Gulf of Riga largely ice-covered following sustained sub-zero air temperatures across the Baltic region. Sea ice appears in pale grey and white tones, intersected by dark linear fractures which indicate mechanical stress within the ice sheet. Snow-covered land surrounding the gulf appears bright white.
Data from Copernicus Sentinel-2 satellites support monitoring sea ice extent and distribution, helping maritime authorities plan safe shipping routes and deploy icebreakers efficiently during winter months.
