The problem is not with the magnetic pole. It’s with the computer model that’s used to predict the variation. These models have usually been valid for five years. This time, the 2015 model has developed some errors sooner than 2020. So the only question is “Should they update the model sooner?”
Do you care? If you’re still using paper charts, the annual change in variation indicated on the
compass rose has always been an average. If you’re using an electronic chart system that allows conversion between true and magnetic bearings, you were always supposed to get
software updates that corrected the model.
What’s new?