Arctic issues have recently become extremely relevant both in the USSR and abroad. At present, it is generally recognized that various kinds of phenomena occurring in the hydrosphere and atmosphere of the northern part of the earth's hemisphere are of great importance for the economy not only of circumpolar and polar latitudes, but also for the temperate zone. The organization of the second international polar year with the participation of many states is a sufficient illustration of the importance of studying the Arctic. The leading role in resolving the entire northern problem undoubtedly belongs to the USSR.