concept

sea surface temperature

Also known as: sea surface temperature, sea surface temperatures, sea-surface temperature observations

Facts (21)

Sources

Comprehensive Overview on the Present State and Evolution of ... link.springer.com Springer Aug 9, 2024 12 facts

measurementThe HadSST3 dataset recorded sea surface temperature increases of 0.19 °C in 2003, 0.17 °C in 2013, and 0.29 °C in 2022.

measurementThe HadSST4 dataset recorded sea surface temperature increases of 0.17 °C in 2003, 0.18 °C in 2013, and 0.38 °C in 2022.

claimHadSST stands for Hadley centre sea surface temperature.

referenceGarcia-Soto et al. conducted a review and revision of global trends in physical and chemical aspects of the ocean using seven indicators: sea surface temperature, sea level, heat content, ocean pH value, dissolved oxygen concentration, Arctic sea ice extent/volume/thickness, and the magnitude of the Atlantic meridional overturning circulation.

referenceKennedy, J.J., Rayner, N.A., Smith, R.O., Saunby, M., and Parker, D.E. published 'Reassessing biases and other uncertainties in sea-surface temperature observations since 1850 part 1: measurement and sampling errors' in the Journal of Geophysical Research in 2011.

claimSea surface temperatures experienced a decline from 1880 to 1910, followed by notable increases from 1910 to 1940 and from 1970 to the present.

referenceGarcia-Soto et al. (2021) provided an overview of ocean climate change indicators, including sea surface temperature, ocean heat content, ocean pH, dissolved oxygen concentration, arctic sea ice extent, thickness and volume, sea level, and the strength of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC).

claimSea surface temperature increases as oceans absorb more heat, which subsequently alters ocean circulation patterns and impacts marine ecosystems.

measurementThe ERSSTv5 dataset recorded sea surface temperature increases of 0.14 °C in 2003, 0.15 °C in 2013, and 0.3 °C in 2022.

claimSea surface temperatures have remained consistently elevated over the last thirty years, surpassing any previous levels recorded since 1880.

claimElevated ocean heat content and sea surface temperatures contribute to the heightened intensity, size, and duration of tropical cyclones, which increases their potential for causing flooding.

referenceKennedy, J.J., Rayner, N.A., Smith, R.O., Saunby, M., and Parker, D.E. published 'Reassessing biases and other uncertainties in sea-surface temperature observations since 1850 part 2: biases and homogenisation' in the Journal of Geophysical Research in 2011.

A review of climate change impacts on migration patterns of marine ... frontiersin.org Frontiers Oct 25, 2024 7 facts

claimSea surface temperatures (SSTs) impact estuarine use by Arctic char, as these habitats are typically occupied when the ocean is relatively cold, meaning warming temperatures could decrease movement into estuaries.

referenceSea surface temperatures and changes in sea-ice concentrations have been suggested as potential cues that trigger or delay bowhead whale migration, according to Tsjuii et al. (2021) and Ferguson et al. (2010).

claimLater fall ice formation has resulted in a longer ice-free season and increased sea surface temperatures, which influences the movement of many anadromous fish species, according to Bond and Quinn (2013).

claimChambault et al. (2018) found that sea surface temperature predicts the movements of the bowhead whale, an Arctic cetacean.

claimThe nearshore habitat-use and marine spatial distribution of Dolly Varden are influenced by sea surface temperature (SST) and ice conditions.

claimBowhead whales in West Greenland have shifted their movements away from traditional summering areas in Disko Bay, moving southward to track sea surface temperature (SST) patterns, specifically targeting a temperature range between -0.5°C and 2°C, as reported by Chambault et al. (2018).

claimDolly Varden often occupy nearshore habitats in years with cooler sea surface temperatures (SSTs) but use more offshore areas in years with warmer sea surface temperatures.

ESS Subtopic 6.2: Climate change – Causes and Impacts mrgscience.com mrgscience.com 1 fact

claimTropical cyclones, including hurricanes and typhoons, are becoming more intense due to warmer sea surface temperatures.

Scientists Say New Government Climate Report Twists Their Work wired.com WIRED Jul 30, 2025 1 fact

claimRichard Seager, a research professor at the Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory of Columbia University, coauthored a paper cited in the Department of Energy (DOE) report regarding discrepancies between climate model predictions and actual measurements of sea-surface temperatures in the Pacific Ocean.