Global ocean temperatures have reached their highest recorded levels, according to data from the European Copernicus climate change service. The average surface temperature of seas outside polar regions hit 21.1°C on Saturday, marginally exceeding the previous record of 21.09°C set in March 2024. Scientists note the timing of this record is particularly significant, as ocean temperatures typically peak during the northern hemisphere’s spring months rather than late summer.
The warming is attributed to a combination of factors, with human-caused climate change providing the baseline warming while the developing El Niño weather phenomenon adds additional heat to the system. El Niño is expected to strengthen further until around Christmas, with forecasts suggesting it could become the most powerful in centuries. Researchers anticipate that ocean temperature records may be broken again as El Niño reaches its peak intensity in subsequent months.
The consequences of elevated ocean temperatures are wide-ranging. Warmer seas can fuel more intense storms by providing additional moisture and energy, intensify coastal heatwaves by reducing cooling effects, and cause sea levels to rise as water expands. Marine ecosystems face particular stress, with coral reefs and other habitats vulnerable to prolonged heat exposure. The western English Channel has experienced nearly continuous marine heatwave conditions for over three years, with temperatures reaching 7°C above normal levels.
Scientists emphasize that the widespread ocean warmth observed globally reflects the cumulative impact of human greenhouse gas emissions. The oceans absorb more than 90 percent of excess heat trapped by these emissions, primarily from fossil fuel combustion. The accelerating frequency of marine heatwaves is placing increasing strain on ocean ecosystems and the communities dependent on them, according to climate researchers monitoring these developments.
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