World’s oceans experience hottest June ever, scientists say more heat ahead
Summary
The world’s oceans had their hottest June ever recorded, and they may continue to get even warmer in the coming months due to climate change and a possible El Niño event. Scientists warn that these high ocean temperatures can lead to more extreme weather and harm marine life.Key Facts
- In June, global sea surface temperatures reached a record high of 21.0 degrees Celsius (69.8 degrees Fahrenheit).
- This June’s temperatures broke previous records set in 2023 and 2024.
- Around 82 percent of the world’s oceans experienced marine heatwaves during the first half of 2026.
- Regions like the Mediterranean, central North Atlantic, and equatorial Pacific showed especially high sea temperatures.
- El Niño, a weather pattern with warm Pacific waters, could increase ocean and air temperatures more this year and next.
- El Niño can cause extreme weather worldwide, such as floods, droughts, and wildfires.
- Oceans absorb about 90 percent of excess heat caused by greenhouse gases, making them critical to Earth’s climate.
- Warmer oceans lead to sea level rise and harm coral reefs, which can bleach and die from prolonged heat.
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