World’s Oceans Hit Record Heat as El Niño Intensifies, Putting Colombia at Risk
Global ocean temperatures have reached their highest level on record, with the average surface temperature rising to 21.1°C (70°F) on Aug. 22, according to the Copernicus Climate Change Service. The reading surpassed the previous record of 21.09°C set in March 2024. The unusual August peak comes as a strong El Niño develops in the tropical […]
The world's oceans have hit a record high temperature of 21.1°C (70°F), signaling the intensifying effects of El Niño, according to the Copernicus Climate Change Service. This August peak surpasses the previous record set in March 2024. El Niño, a natural climate phenomenon, is occurring alongside human-caused climate change, which has steadily increased ocean temperatures over decades.
As a result, Colombia is facing heightened risks of heat, reduced water availability, and wildfires. The country has declared a national disaster situation and identified 558 municipalities at high or very high risk of drinking-water shortages. The record ocean heat, combined with El Niño, adds to the long-term warming caused by human activities, creating a climate system where natural variability can exacerbate already elevated temperatures.
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