Sea temperatures around the UK and Ireland have risen over the past week, with some regions now measuring up to 4°C above average — a spike that could impact marine ecosystems and swimmers alike.
Dr Ségolène Berthou at the Met Office explained that “marine heatwaves in UK waters usually last around two to four weeks. This year’s event began early March and has continued into May, making it “one of the longest on record for this time of year.”
Ocean and climate modeller, Dr Zoe Jacobs, from the National Oceanography Centre, who first noticed the heatwave developing, warned in 2023 that while marine heatwaves in UK have not been as long-lasting or intense as other parts of the world, they are projected to increase. This, she suggests, provides the UK with a chance to learn from best practice and be better prepared for future events.