Ocean Temperatures on the Rise: The Dangerous Consequences of Global Warming

The ocean is warming due to the increase in greenhouse gas concentrations, which not only warm the air but also affect the ocean. Research shows that approximately 90 percent of the excess heat from global warming is being absorbed by the ocean. Since measurements began in 1955, ocean heat has been steadily increasing, with record-breaking temperatures recorded in 2023. This rise in ocean heat has led to more frequent and intense marine heat waves.

An image representing sea surface temperature anomalies in August 2023 shows warm colors such as red, orange, and yellow indicating areas where temperatures were warmer than usual. Cool colors like blues show areas where temperatures were cooler than average. The large red swath in the Eastern Pacific is attributed to an El Niño event, a climate phenomenon in the tropical Pacific that leads to warmer sea surface temperatures than normal and affects weather patterns worldwide. NASA provides this data.

In conclusion, the rising trend of ocean warming is a significant concern for marine ecosystems and weather patterns globally. Scientists and researchers closely monitor these changes to better understand and address the implications of such temperature anomalies in the ocean.