World's Oceans Hit Record High Temperatures; Scientists Warn of Consequences
On June 21, average sea surface temperatures reached unprecedented levels, exceeding previous records. Experts anticipate more records and caution about increased risk of extreme weather.
According to data from the European Union's Copernicus Climate Change Service, the global average sea surface temperature on June 21 reached 20.86°C, while the Copernicus Marine Service recorded 21°C. Both readings surpassed previous records set on the same date in 2023 and 2024. The data are collected separately, combining local observations and satellite measurements, resulting in slight differences.
Copernicus stated that a new record was expected, as several regions had already experienced unusually high ocean temperatures. The warming is amplified by the El Niño phenomenon, which occurs every few years in the equatorial Pacific Ocean and exacerbates human-induced climate change. El Niño is associated with droughts and floods, particularly in the southern hemisphere, but its direct impact on Europe is limited.
Copernicus director Carlo Buontempo said that current conditions may mark the beginning of a new phase, leading the climate into "uncharted territory." He predicted that with ocean temperatures and the approaching El Niño, more records are likely to be broken in the coming months, both in oceans and the lower atmosphere. Experts note that in 2024, when the previous record was set, El Niño was already weakening, but this year it has only recently begun.
Warmer oceans keep the atmosphere warmer for longer and accumulate more energy, increasing the risk of extreme storms, heavy rainfall, and floods.
