What caused the record high tides in California in January 2026?

Record high tides in January 2026 were exacerbated by the full moon being closest to Earth, combined with unusually high water levels and heavy rains in some areas.

How are warming oceans impacting global weather?

Warming oceans contribute to more moisture in the atmosphere, driving extreme weather events like intense rainfall, more damaging hurricanes, and rising sea levels.

Was 2025 a record-breaking year for global temperatures?

Yes, 2025 was the third warmest year on record, and the last 11 years have been the warmest since measurements began in 1850.

Home / Environment / Global Oceans Hit Record Heat, Driving Extreme Weather

Global Oceans Hit Record Heat, Driving Extreme Weather

17 Jan

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Summary

January 2026 saw record high tides and temperatures globally.
Warming oceans are a key factor driving extreme weather events.
2025 was the third warmest year on record; recent years are hottest.

Global Oceans Hit Record Heat, Driving Extreme Weather

January 2026 commenced with significant weather anomalies, marked by record-setting temperatures and unusually high tides. These occurrences, particularly along the Pacific Coast, highlight a pattern of increasing climate extremes. Scientists emphasize that the planet's warming oceans are a primary driver behind these events, contributing to phenomena like intense rainfall and coastal flooding.

The year 2025 was confirmed as the third warmest year on record since measurements began in 1850, with the last 11 years constituting the warmest on record. This warming trend is largely fueled by rising ocean heat content, which has set new global records for nine consecutive years. This sustained increase in ocean warmth is a direct consequence of elevated greenhouse gas levels.

Experts predict that the observed warming of oceans will continue to intensify weather events. This includes more severe hurricanes, accelerated ice melt, rising sea levels, and increased coastal inundation. Consequently, areas like the Southwest Pacific Coast are expected to experience a doubling of high tide flooding days between 2020 and 2030, even under conservative sea level rise projections.