July 2024 sea surface temperatures reach record high globally

Scientists have reported that the world’s seas were hotter last month than in any July on record, with the average sea surface temperature outside the polar regions reaching a new peak. This latest record surpasses the previous July high set in 2023, underscoring a continuing trend of rising ocean temperatures.

The EU’s Copernicus climate change service identified record‑high temperatures along the Atlantic coast and the western Mediterranean, where severe marine heatwaves have intensified. These heatwaves have exacerbated already devastating heat conditions across western Europe, affecting coastal ecosystems and marine life. The data indicate a pronounced warming trend in the Atlantic and Mediterranean basins, contributing to the global rise in sea surface temperatures.

The new record highlights the accelerating pace of ocean warming and its potential impacts on marine environments and coastal communities. Continued monitoring and research will be essential to understand the long‑term implications of these temperature increases.