Oceans Hit Highest Temperature Ever Recorded

The world’s oceans have reached their highest average surface temperature on record. According to the European Union’s Copernicus Climate Change Service, the global average sea surface temperature reached 21.1 degrees Celsius on August 22.

The previous record was 21.09 degrees Celsius, recorded in March 2024. Data dating back to 1979 shows that the latest reading is the highest daily global average sea surface temperature ever recorded.

Scientists say long-term human-driven climate change, combined with the ongoing El Niño conditions, is contributing to the rise in ocean temperatures. Ocean temperatures normally reach their annual peak around March and April, making the latest record in August particularly unusual.

Rising ocean temperatures are putting increasing pressure on marine ecosystems, coral reefs and fisheries. Warmer oceans can also release more heat and moisture into the atmosphere, increasing the risk of extreme weather events, including stronger storms.

Scientists warn that continued ocean warming could have serious consequences for marine life and the global climate system.