Oceans Reach Record Temperatures Amid Climate Concerns

A recent study by an international research team published in "Advances in Atmospheric Sciences" reveals that oceans have reached their highest temperatures on record in 2024, both at the surface and in the upper 2000 meters. This alarming trend has significant implications for global climate patterns, as the oceans play a critical role in absorbing excess heat from climate change—approximately 90 percent of that heat is stored in the seas.

The researchers analyzed the thermal content of the oceans, noting an increase of 16 zettajoules in the upper 2000 meters from 2023 to 2024. This increase is equivalent to 140 times the total global electricity generation in 2023. Their findings demonstrate a persistent upward trend in ocean heat content, which has diverged significantly from the historical averages established from 1981 to 2010.

In addition to the rising temperatures, surface ocean temperatures have also reached new highs since the late 1950s. These warmer waters impact weather patterns by increasing the transfer of heat and moisture into the atmosphere, thereby intensifying weather extremes such as storms and floods. John Abraham, a co-author of the study from the University of St. Thomas in Minnesota, highlighted that understanding climate change lies fundamentally in comprehending ocean temperatures.

Karina von Schuckmann from Mercator Ocean International described the oceans as a critical indicator of planetary warming. The study emphasizes that without more robust actions to combat climate change, disturbances related to these rising ocean temperatures are expected to escalate.