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Scientists warn that 2023's extreme ocean heat may signal a major climate shift

A new federal report reveals that 2023 saw record-breaking ocean heat and dwindling cloud cover, suggesting unprecedented changes in Earth's climate.

Bob Berwyn reports for Inside Climate News.

In short:

The report highlights that 94% of the world’s oceans experienced a marine heatwave in 2023.
New classifications like "super-marine heatwaves" are being used to describe the extreme warming events.
Last year's record-low cloud cover allowed more solar heat to reach Earth’s surface.

Key quote:

“Sometimes people classify marine heatwaves from category one to category four, but a super-marine heatwave is above all that.”

— Xungang Yin, NOAA climate researcher

Why this matters:

These unprecedented marine heatwaves and reduced cloud cover could signify a rapid shift in global climate patterns. The resulting impacts on marine ecosystems and weather could have serious, long-term consequences.

insideclimatenews.org

Ornate Parliament Hill building and clock tower in Canada's capital city.

Credit: Colin Temple/Big Stock Photo

Mark Carney’s rise places Trump between two quiet climate champions

Canada’s newly elected Prime Minister Mark Carney and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, both seasoned climate advocates, now flank President Trump, creating a North American dynamic where climate leadership persists even when it’s not a campaign focus.

Justin Worland reports for TIME.

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