Record Breaking Ocean Temperatures

The surface of the ocean has been getting warmer for decades, but recent satellite measurements have shown that the ocean is now hotter than ever before. The average global sea surface temperature in 2020 was the highest since record-keeping began in 1880 and has now hit an all-time high according to a recent report by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

The report found that the ocean's surface temperature in 2020 was 1.06°C (1.91°F) above the 20th-century average. This might not sound like a significant increase, but it is enough to cause serious problems for marine life and the planet as a whole. The oceans absorb more than 90% of the excess heat trapped in the atmosphere by greenhouse gases, which is causing them to warm at an alarming rate. The warmer ocean temperatures have already caused coral bleaching, fish migration, and changes in weather patterns around the world causing more extreme weather events such as hurricanes, typhoons, and cyclones.

Warmer oceans mean that sea levels will rise as the water expands, and ice caps and glaciers melt. This could cause flooding in coastal areas and threaten the lives and homes of millions of people. The warmer oceans also affect weather patterns.

So what can we do to stop the ocean from getting hotter? The answer lies in reducing greenhouse gas emissions caused by human activities such as burning fossil fuels. Check out our website to see how your household can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions!