Archive · 25 Aug 2026
Earth’s Oceans Reach 125,000-Year Heat Record Amid El Niño
Earth’s oceans are much warmer than usual in 2026.
Scientists say the water may be hotter than at any time in the past 125,000 years.
A strong El Niño weather pattern is helping heat the oceans.
Warmer oceans can add energy to storms.
This may bring heavier rain, flooding and other dangerous weather.
Several countries have already experienced heatwaves and wildfires.
The oceans also absorb carbon dioxide, but hotter water may be less able to take in more of it.
Researchers say the warming is happening alongside long-term human-caused changes to the climate.
Ocean surface temperatures reportedly reached about 21°C in 2026, potentially the highest in 125,000 years.
A powerful El Niño has contributed to heatwaves, wildfires, extreme rainfall and flooding risks worldwide.
Unlike the usual March-April peak, ocean heat reportedly remained unusually high through August.
Ryan Katz-Rosene said the temperatures may be the highest of the Holocene period and possibly the last interglacial period.
Copernicus researchers said global marine heatwave days have more than tripled since the early 1990s.
- Who
- Environmental studies professor Ryan Katz-Rosene and researchers from the European Union’s Copernicus Climate Change Service discussed the record ocean heat.
- What
- Ocean surface temperatures reportedly reached about 21°C, potentially making 2026 the hottest ocean year in roughly 125,000 years.
- When
- The report concerns 2026; August 21 was identified as a likely peak date, with unusually high heat continuing into August.
- Where
- The warming is global, affecting the world’s oceans, while heatwaves and other impacts were reported in Europe and the United States.
- Why
- A strong El Niño has contributed to the ocean heating, alongside the effects of human activity on the climate.
- Reported ocean temperature
- About 21°C at the surface in 2026
- Possible historical record
- Potentially the highest ocean temperature in 125,000 years
- Usual seasonal peak
- Ocean heat normally peaks around March and April
- 2026 anomaly
- Ocean heat reportedly remained high through August
- Weather risks
- Stronger storms, intense rainfall and flooding
- Marine heatwaves
- Global marine heatwave days have more than tripled since the early 1990s