polar regions; polar areas
Refers to the Arctic and Antarctic regions. Often used in geographical or environmental contexts.
In the polar regions, temperatures often remain below freezing even in summer.
北極 refers specifically to the North Pole or Arctic region, while 両極地方 covers both polar regions.
南極 refers specifically to the South Pole or Antarctic region, while 両極地方 covers both polar regions.
Compound of 両 (both) + 極 (pole) + 地方 (region). The reading is standard on'yomi.