Record Ocean Temperatures Spur Heat Warnings in Europe and Turkey

The Copernicus Climate Change Service and Copernicus Marine Service confirmed that global ocean surface temperature reached a new high of 20.86 °C (21 °C by the marine service) on 21 June, surpassing records from 2023 and 2024. Experts warned that the unprecedented warmth, combined with an emerging El Niño, could drive further temperature spikes and signal a new phase of climate change.

In the United States, the National Weather Service issued extreme‑heat alerts for more than 46 million people. In Europe, the World Health Organization reported over 1,300 excess deaths linked to the heat wave, with France noting roughly 1,000 additional fatalities.

Turkey’s meteorological authorities forecast a “scorching” heat wave from mid‑July, expecting temperatures of 35 °C in Istanbul and up to 40 °C in interior regions such as Aydın, Denizli, and Manisa. Officials urged the public to avoid outdoor activity between 12:00 and 15:00, hydrate, and protect vulnerable groups from heat‑related illnesses.