A mysterious heatwave, known as a "warm blob", has broken records in the North Pacific Ocean, with sea surface temperatures rising by more than 0.25C above previous high levels. The phenomenon, which covers an area roughly ten times the size of the Mediterranean, has confounded climate scientists who are struggling to explain why it's occurring.
The warm waters are affecting weather patterns on both sides of the Pacific, boosting very high summer temperatures in Japan and South Korea, as well as storms in the US. In California, researchers have seen supercharged thunderstorms due to the warm ocean waters providing heat and moisture. However, these extreme conditions can also bring a lot of rain or snow.
The North Pacific's marine heatwave has been linked to La Niรฑa, a natural weather pattern that typically increases the risk of a cold start to winter in the UK. Weak La Niรฑa conditions are expected to persist over the next few months, which may influence the UK's weather. However, the extreme warmth in the North Pacific could have different effects on UK winters, potentially leading to milder and wetter conditions.
The region has seen an unusual jump in temperatures across a large area of the north Pacific, with 2025 being markedly higher than recent years. While climate change is known to make marine heatwaves more likely, scientists are still trying to understand what's driving this particular phenomenon. One theory suggests that changes in shipping fuels could be contributing to the warming.
The North Pacific's marine heatwave highlights the complexities of global warming and its impact on different regions around the world. As we continue to experience extreme weather events, it's essential to stay informed and up-to-date with the latest climate research and scientific findings.
The warm waters are affecting weather patterns on both sides of the Pacific, boosting very high summer temperatures in Japan and South Korea, as well as storms in the US. In California, researchers have seen supercharged thunderstorms due to the warm ocean waters providing heat and moisture. However, these extreme conditions can also bring a lot of rain or snow.
The North Pacific's marine heatwave has been linked to La Niรฑa, a natural weather pattern that typically increases the risk of a cold start to winter in the UK. Weak La Niรฑa conditions are expected to persist over the next few months, which may influence the UK's weather. However, the extreme warmth in the North Pacific could have different effects on UK winters, potentially leading to milder and wetter conditions.
The region has seen an unusual jump in temperatures across a large area of the north Pacific, with 2025 being markedly higher than recent years. While climate change is known to make marine heatwaves more likely, scientists are still trying to understand what's driving this particular phenomenon. One theory suggests that changes in shipping fuels could be contributing to the warming.
The North Pacific's marine heatwave highlights the complexities of global warming and its impact on different regions around the world. As we continue to experience extreme weather events, it's essential to stay informed and up-to-date with the latest climate research and scientific findings.