The article analyzes the common features and differences of "earlier" and "modern" warming observed. The longest-period series of meteorological observations made on the Svalbard archipelago are used. The phases of growth of surface air temperature are studied. It has been shown that "earlier" warming was more significant in comparison with "modern" warming. The most significant anomalies are observed in the winter months in "early" warming, while "modern" warming is recorded throughout the year.