Human-caused global warming was the main driver of record-breaking sea temperatures around Europe this summer, scientists have warned.
Analysis by the World Weather Attribution found climate change had added around 2C of warming to the Mediterranean and 1.4C to Western European seas.
The Mediterranean reached an average 27C in July, the highest ever recorded for the month. While a buoy near Mallorca registered 33C in August, according to Reuters.
Researchers said this year’s peak temperatures in the Mediterranean, Bay of Biscay and Iberian coast would have been “virtually impossible” without human-driven global warming.
Extreme sea temperatures can increase coastal heat and humidity, fuel storms and trigger marine species die-offs. Scientists warned that disruption to marine ecosystems could also affect birds, mammals and wider food chains.
