Record-breaking Ocean Surface Temperature Soars and Predicted to Continue Rising
In an unprecedented event, the world’s oceans are witnessing scorching temperatures, reaching their highest-ever recorded level of 20.96°C, surpassing the previous record set in 2016, according to the Copernicus climate modelling service.
This alarming rise is primarily attributed to climate breakdown induced by the burning of fossil fuels, resulting in the oceans’ relentless heating. Scientists warn that this record is likely to be shattered again, with ocean temperatures typically peaking in March, not August.
Dr. Samantha Burgess, an expert from Copernicus, expresses concern, stating, “The fact that we’ve seen the record now makes me nervous about how much warmer the ocean may get between now and next March.
” The impact of the El Niño weather phenomenon may have played a role in the rising temperatures, but climate breakdown and the heating atmosphere have undoubtedly intensified these weather patterns.
The ever-increasing consumption of fossil fuels further exacerbates the situation, as oceans act as vital regulators of the climate, absorbing excess heat and carbon dioxide. However, this essential role becomes compromised as oceans heat up, resulting in reduced carbon absorption and contributing to rising sea levels due to ice melting.
British Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak, has announced over 100 new oil and gas licenses in the North Sea, disregarding the advice of climate experts. Such decisions raise serious concerns about the commitment to combat climate change and preserve the oceans’ delicate balance.
Historical sea surface temperature measurements taken from ships, spanning over 150 years, have provided crucial insights into the Earth’s climate. Over the past four decades, the global mean sea surface temperature has risen by approximately 0.6°C, with the most recent five-year average surpassing the average between 1991 and 2020 by about 0.2°C.
Hotspots and Rising Marine Heatwaves
Regions experiencing the fastest warming include parts of the Arctic Ocean, the Baltic Sea, the Black Sea, and areas in the extra-tropical Pacific. This year, numerous marine heatwaves have occurred worldwide, with the UK, Ireland, and Florida experiencing unprecedented temperatures.
The consequences of rising ocean temperatures are dire for both the environment and humanity. Oceans play a vital role in providing oxygen, food, and storm protection. They also act as essential carbon dioxide sinks, absorbing and mitigating climate-heating greenhouse gases.
However, as temperatures rise, their capacity to serve these functions diminishes, posing a threat to all life on Earth.
The unprecedented rise in ocean temperatures is a stark reminder of the consequences of climate breakdown. Urgent and decisive action is required to address this crisis before it spirals into an irreversible catastrophe. The time to act is now, and we must all come together to protect our oceans and secure a sustainable future.
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Source: The Guardian
