Abstract:
The Cryospheric regions, or regions where water is found in solid form, are among the most sensitive to temperature change. Average temperatures in snow and ice-covered areas typically remain below zero Celsius much of the year. Unlike other substances found on Earth, ice and snow exist relatively close to their melting point and frequently change phase from solid to liquid and back again.
... Consequently, consistent and prolonged warming trends should result in observable changes to the Earth's cryosphere. Scientists have the opportunity to monitor temperature by observing such phase changes.
This web site presents a summary of cryospheric and related indicators of global climate trends including:
-temperature change over the past century
-trends in hemispheric snow extent
-trends in hemispheric sea ice extent
-glacier melt
-changes in sea level
[Summary adapted from the State of the Cryosphere website.] 
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