Global sea surface temperature hits record high in June: Scientists warn of El Niño and climate crisis

Global sea surface temperatures reached their highest level on record in June. According to data from the European Union's Copernicus Climate Change Service, the average global sea surface temperature reached 20.86 degrees on June 21, breaking the record for the month of June.

The data showed that the June record set in 2024 has been surpassed. Measurements from the Copernicus Marine Service also revealed that sea surface temperatures approached 21 degrees on the same date, exceeding the previous June peak.

Scientists are pointing to the impact of El Niño in this unusual warming. It is noted that El Niño, which is defined by sea waters in the equatorial Pacific being warmer than normal, is still in its early stages but could strengthen in the coming period.

According to experts, the human-induced climate crisis is also among the primary reasons for the increase in ocean temperatures. Oceans have long served as the planet's most important "heat sink," absorbing approximately 90 percent of the excess heat resulting from fossil fuel use.

Oceanographer Michael Meredith from the British Antarctic Survey stated that the increase in sea surface temperatures was not unexpected, but the rate of warming is concerning. Carlo Buontempo, Director of the Copernicus Climate Change Service, also warned that current conditions could signal a new and uncertain era for the climate system.

Warmer seas can also affect the atmosphere, strengthening heatwaves. As oceans provide more energy to storms, they increase the destructiveness of tropical systems, while the rise in evaporation can amplify the risks of extreme rainfall, floods, and inundation.

Marine ecosystems are also under pressure in the face of this situation. Prolonged high temperatures can have negative effects on corals, fish populations, and the reproductive cycles of marine life.