Soaring sea surface temperatures in the north Atlantic and western Mediterranean are partly fuelling the current heatwave in Europe, scientists have warned. “But as always with extreme events there are some atmospheric circulation events that can lead to extreme temperature. Parts of the Mediterranean Sea are expected to reach more than 30°C, according to the World Meteorological Organisation. “We are seeing a record high sea surface temperature, in the north Atlantic as a whole, but particularly on the eastern side," he added. Although the current heatwave is expected to recede soon, if sea surface temperatures remain high they could help fuel further heatwaves this summer.

Source: The North Africa Journal July 19, 2023 13:16 UTC