European Observatory: Ocean Surface Temperature Reaches Unprecedented Record Level

European Observatory: Ocean Surface Temperature Reaches Unprecedented Record Level

The European Climate Observatory “Copernicus” announced that the average global ocean surface temperature has reached a new daily record, marking another indication of the escalating effects of climate change and the rise in global ocean temperatures. The observatory clarified that the average ocean surface temperature reached 21.1 degrees Celsius on Saturday, surpassing the previous record of 21.09 degrees Celsius recorded in March 2024.

It noted that recording such a level in August is unusual, as global ocean temperatures typically peak during March and April, coinciding with the end of summer in the Southern Hemisphere, which contains the world’s largest bodies of water. Scientists link the continuous rise in ocean temperatures to the accumulation of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, with the natural phenomenon “El Niño” contributing to the warming, amid indications that it could be one of the strongest recorded instances.

“Copernicus” warned that the rise in ocean temperature could increase the risks of extreme weather events, as it leads to the transfer of more heat and moisture into the atmosphere, potentially intensifying the severity of rainfall and storms in different regions across the globe. Oceans play a crucial role in regulating Earth’s climate, absorbing about 90% of the excess heat generated by human activities, particularly the burning of fossil fuels such as oil, gas, and coal.

Samantha Burgess, an official at the “Copernicus” Observatory, stated that the new record provides “yet another clear indication of the increasing stress on the ocean,” warning that the continued rise in water temperatures enhances the risks facing marine ecosystems and coastal communities.