China's Coastal Waters Experience Record High Temperatures, Reflecting Global Ocean Warming Trend

China's Coastal Waters Experience Record High Temperatures

The average surface temperature of China's coastal waters reached a record high in 2024, reflecting the global trend of rising ocean temperatures. This marks the second consecutive year of increasing temperatures, with the average sea surface temperature reaching 21.5°C, 0.15°C higher than 2023 and 1.16°C above the typical annual average.

The warming trend is evident across different regions, with the Bohai Sea and northern Yellow Sea experiencing temperatures 1.51°C above average, the southern Yellow Sea 1.47°C above average, the East China Sea 1.04°C above average, and the South China Sea 0.88°C above average.

Global Ocean Temperatures Reach Record High

This warming trend is not limited to China's coastal waters. The global sea surface temperature in 2024 also reached a record high of 20.87°C, making it the warmest year for ocean waters in modern observational history. This widespread ocean warming is evident in regions such as the Indian Ocean, the tropical Atlantic, the North Atlantic, the Mediterranean, the North Pacific, and the Southern Ocean.

Ocean Warming and its Consequences

The warming of the oceans is a significant concern due to its impact on weather patterns and climate-related events. It is linked to more frequent extreme weather events such as droughts, typhoons, and floods. In 2024, 104 countries reported record high temperatures, with widespread droughts, heat waves, and wildfires affecting regions like South Africa, South Asia, the Philippines, Brazil, Europe, and the northeastern United States.

Furthermore, ocean warming is contributing to the rise in global sea levels, increasing risks for coastal and low-lying areas. This includes land erosion and other threats to these vulnerable regions.

Urgent Action Needed to Address Climate Change

Scientists warn that without immediate action to slow climate change, the disruptions, unprecedented changes, and their associated costs and damages will continue to escalate. Addressing this issue requires a global effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate the impacts of climate change.