400-km Arctic ice road delay for diamond mines due to Canada's mild winter and El Niño climate pattern.

Canada's unusually mild winter has delayed the opening of a critical 400-km ice road, serving as the main connection for Rio Tinto, Burgundy Mines, and De Beers to access their diamond mines in the remote Arctic region. The Winter Road, operational since 1982, faced a two-week delay in February, disrupting the movement of goods along the ice road built over 64 frozen lakes. This year's El Niño climate pattern resulted in warmer temperatures, making the ice road's formation more challenging. Canada's diamond production faces potential disruptions due to climate change and the lack of infrastructure development.

March 30, 2024
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