Copernicus report finds ocean warming doubled in 20 years

October 1, 2026 at 08:56 AM1 min

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The tenth Copernicus Ocean State Report, signed by more than 100 scientists, finds ocean warming has doubled over the past 20 years. Record sea temperatures were recorded in 2023, 2024 and 2026. The report calls on governments and communities to prepare urgently for the changes.

Key Facts

The tenth Copernicus Ocean State Report was signed by more than 100 scientists.
Ocean warming has doubled over the past 20 years, with record sea temperatures in 2023, 2024 and 2026.
Last year the oceans absorbed 23 zettajoules of heat, equivalent to 12 Hiroshima bombs exploding every second, setting a record for the ninth consecutive year.
Warming waters are raising sea levels by an average of 3.8 millimetres per year, threatening hundreds of millions of people in coastal areas.
Ocean acidity has increased by 17 percent since 1985 as the seas absorb carbon pollution.

Record Ocean Heat

The tenth Copernicus Ocean State Report, signed by more than 100 scientists, finds ocean warming has doubled over the past 20 years. Record sea temperatures were recorded in 2023, 2024 and 2026. Last year the oceans absorbed 23 zettajoules of heat, equivalent to 12 Hiroshima bombs exploding every second, setting a record for the ninth consecutive year.

Rising Seas and Acidification

Warming waters are raising sea levels by an average of 3.8 millimetres per year, threatening hundreds of millions of people in coastal areas. Ocean acidity has increased by 17 percent since 1985 as the seas absorb carbon pollution. European seas such as the Mediterranean and the Black Sea are facing record-breaking marine heatwaves.