Key facts
- The world's oceans recorded a new highest temperature of 21.1C on Saturday.
- This record temperature is attributed to the combined effects of climate change and a developing El Niño.
- The formation of a 'super' El Niño is contributing to the elevated ocean heat content.
The world's oceans have reached a record high temperature of 21.1 degrees Celsius on Saturday. This significant increase in ocean heat content is being driven by a combination of long-term climate change and the development of an El Niño weather pattern, with a 'super' El Niño now forming. The elevated temperatures have broad implications for marine ecosystems and global weather patterns.