Global ocean temperatures reached the highest levels ever recorded in June, according to data from the Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S) and Copernicus Marine Service.
The average surface temperature of the world’s oceans, which cover around two-thirds of the planet, reached 20.98°C, surpassing the previous record of 20.89°C set in 2024.
Drivers of rising temperatures
Scientists attribute the increase to a combination of natural climate variability, including the El Niño phenomenon, and long-term human-driven climate change.
These factors have contributed to sustained warming across marine environments, intensifying concerns over global climate trends.
Second warmest start to a year
Data also shows that the first half of 2026 was the second warmest on record, trailing only the same period in 2024.
The findings add to a growing body of evidence that global warming continues to accelerate, with oceans absorbing much of the excess heat trapped in the Earth’s system.
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