Marine heatwave: Record sea temperatures could devastate

Temperatures have been soaring in the Mediterranean this year, but their rise could have devastating consequences on marine life.

A marine heatwave, similar to one on land, is simply where recorded temperatures are exceptionally higher than the relative 'normal' for a sustained period of time.

A study of temperatures between 2015 and 2019 showed temperatures to be highest since records began in 1982, with much of the research indicating widespread mortality and species losses up to 80% owing to the warming sea.

Sea surface temperatures reached a staggering 30.7C off the coast of Corsica on July 24th 2022, with increases between 1-3C likely before the end of the century, according to an IPCC report.

Rising sea temperatures can also prompt mass migration, affecting the balance of ecosystems including invasive versus non-invasive species in any given area. Other impacts include an increase in 'medicanes'.

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