Satellite detection of increasing Northern Hemisphere non-frozen seasons from 1979 to 2008: Implications for regional vegetation growth

► A 30-year global freeze/thaw (FT) record was derived from SMMR and SSM/I records. ► The FT record shows an earlier/longer Northern Hemisphere non-frozen season trend. ► Earlier/longer non-frozen seasons promote widespread plant growth at higher latitudes. ► The benefits to plant growth may be offset by an opposing rise in disturbance impacts.