Ocean Hits Hottest Temperature Ever Recorded as El Niño Strengthens

The world’s oceans have reached their highest temperature on record, scientists confirmed Tuesday, as the El Niño climate pattern continues to intensify. Global sea surface temperatures averaged 21.1°C (70°F) in late March, surpassing the previous record set in 2016. The data, collected by the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), shows the warming is widespread, not limited to one region. El Niño is a natural climate cycle that warms parts of the Pacific Ocean. It often leads to hotter global temperatures and extreme weather, including floods and droughts. Scientists say this year’s event is building on top of long-term warming caused by greenhouse gas emissions. “We are in uncharted territory,” said one climate researcher involved in the analysis. “The ocean is absorbing most of the heat from climate change, and this record is a clear signal that the system is under pressure.” Warmer oceans can harm marine life, including coral reefs and fish populations. They also provide more energy for storms, which can make hurricanes and typhoons stronger. Experts warn that the current trend could push global temperatures past key limits in the coming years. The previous record year, 2016, also coincided with a strong El Niño.