UK waters hit with extreme heatwave as global sea temperatures reach record levels

The UK is experiencing an extreme marine heatwave with sea temperatures 2-5C above average, following a series of atmospheric heatwaves. Scientists warn that these sustained high temperatures threaten marine life with potential mass mortality events.
Why it matters
Rising ocean temperatures driven by climate change pose a significant threat to biodiversity and ecosystem stability, with direct implications for global food security.
The archipelago of St Kilda. Marine temperatures in UK seas have been on average 2C higher than usual, with some areas 4-5C warmer. The archipelago of St Kilda. Marine temperatures in UK seas have been on average 2C higher than usual, with some areas 4-5C warmer. Extreme heat UK waters hit with extreme heatwave as global sea temperatures reach record levels Experts warn that some marine species are at risk of ‘mass mortality events’ in ever-warming oceans
The Guardian typically frames environmental issues through the lens of climate crisis urgency.
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