Global Ocean Temperature Sets New Record: Levon Azizyan

On August 22, the average surface temperature of the global ocean reached 21.1 °C. This is the highest figure recorded since the start of observations in 1979 by the European Copernicus program, according to Levon Azizyan, director of the Hydro-Meteorological and Monitoring Center.

The previous record was registered in March 2024 at 21.09 °C. Notably, the new maximum was recorded in August, while the ocean’s average surface temperature typically peaks from March to April each year.

Scientists attribute the phenomenon to long-term warming of the ocean due to climate change. Currently, the developing strong El Niño is also having an additional impact. Experts warn that the warmer the ocean, the higher the risk of marine heat waves, damage to coral reefs and other ecosystems, as well as the formation of more intense storms,” said Levon Azizyan, director of the Hydro-Meteorological and Monitoring Center.