'Extreme' marine heatwave expected for parts of UK
Summary
Parts of the UK are expected to face an extreme marine heatwave this week, with sea temperatures rising 4-5°C above normal in some areas. This heatwave is linked to recent high air temperatures and long-term ocean warming caused by climate change, which threatens marine plants and animals.Key Facts
- The marine heatwave is strongest off eastern and southern England.
- Sea temperatures could be 4-5°C higher than average in affected areas.
- Warm seas stress marine habitats like seagrasses and kelp forests, causing damage or death.
- Cool-water species like cod are moving north, while warm-water species like octopus are increasing around the UK’s south-west coast.
- Increased octopus populations can harm shellfish like crabs, lobsters, and scallops since octopuses eat them.
- The heatwave is fueled by "heat domes" that previously caused record air temperatures in May and June.
- Marine heatwaves have become more frequent and severe due to human-caused climate change and warmer oceans.
- Experts warn marine heatwaves may become normal by the middle to end of this century if greenhouse gas emissions are not reduced.
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