Aegean, Ionian, and Cretan Seas Record Hottest Summer Ever

12:20 23/11/2024 - Πηγή: iEfimerida

This past summer was the hottest on record for the Aegean, Ionian, and Cretan seas, with water temperatures exceeding 28 degrees Celsius across vast areas. Scientists have documented a significant, long-term increase in sea temperatures, averaging a rise of 0.59°C per decade.

The warming trend, attributed to climate change, was particularly pronounced in deeper waters,

disrupting the usual cooling effects from lower depths.

Marine heatwaves also reached unprecedented intensity in 2024. 

While not particularly frequent, their duration and cumulative intensity surpassed all previous records, doubling the levels seen in 2018.

Researchers attribute these alarming trends to several factors. Extremely high atmospheric temperatures led to increased heat transfer from the air to the sea. Additionally, reduced freshwater inflow from the Black Sea to the Aegean contributed to the heat buildup.

Rising sea temperatures have dire consequences for marine life, the environment, and the economy. One example is the destruction of mussel farms in Thessaloniki due to thermal shock. These findings underscore the urgent need to address climate change and mitigate its impact on our oceans.

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