In a groundbreaking study published on January 10, 2025, average ocean temperatures reached unprecedented levels in 2024, surpassing even the previous record set in 2023. Conducted by a team of 54 researchers led by Lijing Cheng from the Chinese Academy of Sciences, this comprehensive analysis highlights the alarming trend of ocean heating, which is both a consequence and a catalyst of climate change.
The study reveals that the ocean, which absorbs about 90% of excess heat from global warming, now serves as a critical indicator of planetary health. The findings show that global sea surface temperature (SST) and ocean heat content (OHC) hit record highs, with SST estimated at 0.07°C above 2023 levels.
This rise in temperatures is linked to severe environmental impacts, including mass coral bleaching events and the formation of low-oxygen 'dead zones' that threaten marine biodiversity. As warmer waters contribute to extreme weather patterns, scientists warn that we may be approaching a tipping point where ocean feedback effects begin to significantly alter the climate.
The implications for marine life and ecosystems are profound, underscoring the urgent need for continued research and action to mitigate climate change.