# Ocean temperatures hit record high as El Niño intensifies Global warming and El Niño effects push ocean temperatures to historic record levels. - **Source:** [Nature](https://brifing.si/source/4d850c3b-dd79-4024-bc91-db2571889199) - **Published:** 2026-08-26 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/a9874cd4-83c4-48de-9e93-5faa9d1bbe13 ## Temperatures reach record levels Global ocean temperatures have reached their highest levels since measurements began. Scientists attribute this to the combined effects of global warming and the El Niño climate event. Particularly in the Pacific Ocean, rising temperatures are seriously threatening marine ecosystems. This situation also increases the risk of more severe hurricanes and tropical storms forming. ## Impact of El Niño El Niño is a climate phenomenon that occurs when warm water currents in the Pacific Ocean heat up more than usual. This year's El Niño is observed to be particularly strong and significantly affecting global weather patterns. Due to El Niño, South America faces increased rainfall while Asia experiences higher drought risks. Climate models predict this effect will intensify in coming months. ## Effects on marine ecosystems Rising ocean temperatures threaten many marine species, especially coral reefs. Coral bleaching events are increasing while fish populations are changing migration routes. This negatively impacts the fishing industry. Additionally, increasing ocean acidification puts shelled marine creatures at risk. ## Changes in global weather patterns Rising ocean temperatures are causing significant changes in global weather patterns. Meteorologists warn of potentially more severe hurricanes and tropical storms this year. Sea level rise due to warming also threatens millions living in coastal areas worldwide. ## Climate change connection Scientists emphasize that record ocean temperature increases are a consequence of climate change. Over the past 50 years, oceans have absorbed 90% of human-caused greenhouse gas emissions. This causes ocean warming and acidification. Experts stress the urgent need to reduce carbon emissions. ## Agriculture and food security Rising ocean temperatures also affect agriculture. El Niño causes excessive rainfall in some regions and droughts in others. This may lead to decreased agricultural production and rising food prices. Food security is particularly at risk in developing countries. ## Impacts on energy sector Increasing ocean temperatures affect the energy sector too. Hydroelectric plant efficiency may decline due to changing rainfall patterns. Additionally, rising temperatures increase energy demand. This situation could accelerate transition to renewable energy sources. ## Future projections Climate scientists warn that ocean temperature increases will continue. Without action, marine ecosystems could suffer irreversible damage in coming decades. International cooperation and carbon emission reductions are critical to preventing this crisis. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-026-02681-4 — --- _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._