UK Nature and Environment

The sea off the coast of the UK and Ireland is experiencing an unprecedented marine heatwave with temperatures increasing by as much as 4C above average for the spring in some areas.

Marine biologists say the intensity and unprecedented nature of the rise in water temperatures off the coasts of Devon, Cornwall and the west coast of Ireland are very concerning. As human-induced climate breakdown continues to raise global temperatures, the frequency of marine heatwaves is increasing.

“This is unprecedented because it is happening so early in the year,” said Dr Manuela Truebano, from the school of biological and marine sciences at the University of Plymouth. “To see these temperature rises around UK waters at this time of year is quite sobering. Each time it happens we use the word ‘unprecedented’, and I am very concerned at the increase in prevalence and intensity of these marine heatwave events.”