The record was broken on August 21, according to the EU's Copernicus climate service, whose data series outside the poles dates back to 1979. What stands out is that the temperature is so high despite the fact that global sea temperatures are usually highest in March. The temperature is marginally higher than the previous record from March 1, 2024.
A combination of climate change and a growing El Niño is the cause.
Scientists are somewhat uncertain about historical ocean temperatures, but studies indicate that it may have last been this warm 125,000 years ago.
Marine heatwaves are having a devastating impact on animals and plants. Warm water also expands, contributing to higher sea levels.
