World’s seas have hit hottest temperature on record for July, say scientists - The Guardian
July 2026 has officially become the hottest July on record for the world's oceans, excluding polar areas. This record-breaking heat has fueled devastating marine heatwaves, particularly affecting the waters around Europe.
- July 2026 set a new global record for sea surface temperature outside polar regions.
- This surpasses the previous July record set in 2023.
- Severe marine heatwaves impacted Europe's coasts.
- Western Europe experienced its hottest June-July period on record.
The planet's oceans experienced unprecedented heat in July 2026, setting a new record for the month. This surge in sea surface temperatures, particularly outside of polar regions, surpassed the previous record from 2023, signaling a worrying trend in ocean warming.
The impact of this extreme heat is already being felt, with significant marine heatwaves scorching the Atlantic coast and western Mediterranean. These events are a direct consequence of the persistent and exceptional heat that has gripped western Europe, contributing to widespread wildfires and ecological stress.
Data from the EU's Copernicus climate change service confirms that the combined June and July of 2026 were the hottest on record for western Europe. This prolonged period of intense heat underscores the escalating climate crisis and its profound effects on both terrestrial and marine environments.
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