The average surface temperature of the World Ocean reached a record level in August — 21.1°C. This is the highest indicator for the entire observation period. The record was recorded on August 22, reports The Guardian citing data from the European service Copernicus.
The new maximum is especially unusual, as the highest ocean surface temperatures are usually observed in March and April — after the end of the Australian summer.
One of the reasons for the current temperature rise is El Niño — a climatic phenomenon that contributes to the increase in global temperature and changes weather conditions. However, the current warming also occurs against the backdrop of ongoing anthropogenic climate change.
According to expert data, the number of days with abnormally high seawater temperatures worldwide has more than tripled since the early 1990s. Scientists view the new record as further evidence of increasing stress on the World Ocean.
Ocean warming can lead to rising sea levels and an increase in extreme weather events. Warmer water transfers more energy and water vapor to the atmosphere, contributing to heavier rainfall and storms. In addition, the rise in temperature poses a threat to marine ecosystems and the livelihoods of people living in coastal areas.
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