A new study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences reveals a staggering shift in our oceans. Extreme marine heat waves have tripled—from about 15 days annually in the 1940s to nearly 50 days today! 🌊🔥
Global warming is now responsible for almost half of these extreme events, making them last longer and become more intense. When sea surface temperatures soar well above normal for an extended period, it creates conditions that can devastate underwater ecosystems, killing coral reefs, destroying kelp forests, and harming seagrass meadows.
Xiangbo Feng from the National Centre for Atmospheric Science at the University of Reading commented, "Marine heat waves can devastate underwater ecosystems." This serves as a wake-up call for everyone—especially for young, tech-savvy communities across South and Southeast Asia, where vibrant coastal cultures depend on healthy oceans.
Beyond the seas, these rising heat events could even destabilize the atmosphere, potentially triggering more frequent tropical storms. From the shores of Bali to the coasts of Chennai, our marine environments play a vital role in daily life. Let’s stay informed and work together for a greener, more stable future! 💪🌏
Reference(s):
Extreme marine heat waves tripled over past 80 years, study finds
cgtn.com
