The world’s oceans have experienced their highest recorded temperatures ever, fueled by climate change, and this poses dire consequences for the health of our planet. According to the EU’s climate change service Copernicus, the average daily global sea surface temperature reached 20.96°C, surpassing the 2016 record. These warming oceans are crucial climate regulators, absorbing heat, generating half of Earth’s oxygen, and influencing weather patterns.
With rising ocean temperatures, there is reduced capacity for the absorption of carbon dioxide, leading to increased levels of planet-warming gas in the atmosphere. Additionally, glaciers that flow into the ocean are accelerating their melting, contributing to rising sea levels. Marine species, such as fish and whales, are also affected as they struggle to find cooler waters during heat waves, disrupting the food chain and threatening fish stocks.
Scientists are alarmed not only by the breaking of this temperature record but also it’s timing. This occurred in August, which should not be the warmest period globally for the oceans. Dr. Samantha Burgess from Copernicus Climate Change Service expresses concern about how much warmer the oceans may become between now and next March. Climate change is the primary driver behind these escalating temperatures, with ocean heat absorbing the majority of greenhouse gas emissions.
As ocean temperatures continue to rise, scientists are investigating the factors behind this rapid surge. Some theories suggest that stored heat from ocean depths is now resurfacing, potentially linked to the El Niño phenomenon. The increase in marine heatwaves in unexpected regions adds to the urgency of addressing climate change, as its impacts continue to intensify and spread.
This alarming news highlights the pressing need for concerted global efforts to combat climate change and protect our oceans from further damage.
Source: BBC
