# World's oceans reach highest temperature on record Global sea temperatures hit record highs under the influence of El Niño. - **Source:** [BBC News](https://brifing.si/source/647b890e-c85e-45b8-9588-ccfecdec4a99) - **Published:** 2026-08-24 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/70ba7c7d-9dde-4055-945c-21bd7c0fcbb7 ## Record-breaking temperatures According to data from the Copernicus Climate Service, ocean surface temperatures reached a historic high of 21.1°C, surpassing the previous record of 21.09°C set in March 2024. This temperature is significantly above average for August, reflecting the combined impacts of human-induced climate change and the El Niño phenomenon. ## Role of El Niño The El Niño phenomenon, which warms waters in the Pacific Ocean, is driving global temperatures higher. Scientists warn that this year's El Niño could be the strongest in centuries, with its effects expected to intensify until Christmas. This natural phenomenon, combined with human-caused climate change, is amplifying its impact. ## Global consequences Warmer oceans fuel extreme weather events by providing storms with additional moisture and energy. They also intensify heatwaves in coastal regions by reducing the cooling effect of sea breezes. Rising temperatures contribute to sea level rise, increasing the risk of coastal flooding and threatening marine ecosystems. ## Marine ecosystems at risk Extreme ocean temperatures have devastating effects on marine habitats, such as coral reefs. Scientists highlight that the increasing frequency of marine heatwaves is putting unprecedented pressure on marine ecosystems and the communities that depend on them. For instance, the western English Channel has experienced nearly continuous heatwave conditions for over three years. ## Human influence Oceans absorb more than 90% of the excess heat caused by human-induced greenhouse gas emissions, primarily from burning fossil fuels. These emissions are driving a continuous rise in ocean temperatures. Copernicus data underscores the alarming upward trend in these temperatures, signaling the urgent need for climate action. ## Scientific warnings Dr. Jeremy Grist from the National Oceanography Centre notes that the record temperatures are an early indicator of how strong El Niño is becoming. Scientists warn that ocean temperature records could be broken again by March or April 2027, highlighting the escalating impacts of climate change. ## Regional impacts Even regions not directly affected by El Niño are experiencing record-high temperatures. Waters around the UK and Europe have also been extremely warm. Data from the Plymouth Marine Laboratory shows that the western English Channel recorded temperatures 7°C above normal in July. ## Future concerns Scientists warn that the current rise in ocean temperatures may only be the beginning. The combined effects of climate change and El Niño could lead to more severe weather events and ecosystem collapses in the future. This situation underscores the urgent need for global action to mitigate these impacts. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c62m4gpnp78o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._