Record Ocean Temperatures Trigger Extreme Weather in Minnesota

Scientists have reported that the world's oceans reached their highest recorded temperatures in 2024, leading to unprecedented weather shifts in states like Minnesota. According to the Minnesota Star Tribune, the state experienced record highs in winter and fall temperatures, resulting in a warm January-February stretch that marked the warmest in over 130 years. Additionally, severe flooding in June severely threatened the Rapidan Dam near Mankato.

Research led by John Abraham, a thermal scientist at the University of St. Thomas, reveals that these weather extremes are directly related to rising ocean temperatures, which broke records for the seventh consecutive year. The average ocean temperature rose approximately 1 °F (0.56 °C) above the 1981-2010 average, posing significant risks to local ecosystems, including reduced winter ice on lakes affecting fish populations and wildlife.

Abraham emphasizes the urgent need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, stating, "The only answer is to drastically cut the release of greenhouse gases." Minnesota's advances in clean energy solutions could provide effective means to combat these environmental challenges.