This week, the surface ocean temperature in and around the Florida Keys in the United States reached hot tub levels, as worldwide weather monitors continued to warn about the harmful impact of warmer waters on ecosystems.
A water temperature buoy at Everglades National Park measured 101.19 degrees Fahrenheit (38.44 degrees Celsius). The temperature was measured in Manatee Bay’s waters. Other neighboring buoys reached 100F (38C) and the upper 90s (32C).
Normal water temperatures for the area during this time of year, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), should be between 73F and 88F (23C and 31C). The NOAA published the National Data Buoy Center’s findings.
These readings come on the heels of recent warnings about the warming of Florida’s waterways. Other sections of the country have continued to bake as a result of the prolonged heat.
Worldwide marine temperatures have reached monthly record highs since May
Weather extremes are being exacerbated by global, human-caused climate change. The increasing frequency and severity of severe weather is thought to be a sign of climate change.
The World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) of the United Nations reported earlier this month that worldwide marine temperatures have reached monthly record highs since May. This is also influenced by the El Nino weather phenomenon.
Both the WMO and NOAA have stated that temperatures like those measured in South Florida can be lethal to marine life. This, in turn, may endanger ocean ecosystems. Rising temperatures may also have an impact on human food supplies and the livelihoods of those who rely on the oceans for a living.
Dustin Hansel, a fishing boat captain, said the catch has been “slower and slower” for the previous five summers as he wielded his knife to fillet fish pulled into Key Largo on Tuesday. He’s also noticed more dead fish in the waters around Key Largo.
“As far as all of our bay waters, any near-shore waters, everything is super, super hot,” Hansel told Reuters.
NOAA issued a warning earlier this month that warmer water near Florida can amplify hurricanes and tropical storms. Storms acquire energy when they move over warmer water. Rising temperatures are also putting a strain on coral reefs, according to the agency.
