Earth’s oceans reach a milestone scientists say may be unprecedented in millennia

Global sea surface temperatures have climbed to the highest levels observed in modern records, with scientists saying ocean warmth may now rival levels not seen for thousands of years. Data from the European Union’s Copernicus Climate Change Service showed average sea surface temperatures outside the polar regions reaching approximately 70 degrees Fahrenheit in late August, narrowly surpassing a previous record set in March 2024. Researchers said the new milestone is especially notable because ocean temperatures typically peak during the Southern Hemisphere summer, not in August, The Guardian reported.