The world's oceans recorded their hottest July on record in 2026, with developing El Niño conditions in the Pacific adding to the effects of human-driven climate change, according to the European Union's Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Average sea-surface temperatures outside the polar regions reached 20.96°C in July, exceeding the previous July record of 20.89°C set in 2023.
July was also the joint second-warmest July globally, with temperatures 1.47°C above the estimated pre-industrial average.
El Niño adds to record ocean heat
Sea temperatures remained exceptionally high across large parts of the tropical Pacific as El Niño conditions developed.
Forecasters expect the climate phenomenon to strengthen in the coming months, potentially adding further pressure to already elevated global temperatures.
El Niño is a natural climate pattern that can temporarily raise global temperatures and influence rainfall, storms and other extreme weather patterns. Its effects can become more pronounced when combined with human-caused global warming.
Scientists warn that unusually warm oceans can contribute to stronger marine heatwaves, coral bleaching, fisheries disruption and more intense tropical storms.
Warming seawater can also contribute to sea-level rise because warmer water expands.
Europe hit by extreme heat and drought
Western Europe experienced its hottest June-July period on record, with an average temperature of 21.62°C, around 2.79°C above average.
France, Spain, parts of Germany and the United Kingdom experienced exceptionally low rainfall and soil moisture during the period.
Major European rivers, including the Seine, Rhine and Danube, also recorded unusually low water levels, raising concerns over water supplies, agriculture and river transport.
Hot and dry conditions contributed to severe wildfires across parts of the region.
England and Wales record driest July in 190 years
England and Wales experienced their driest July since records began around 190 years ago, according to the UK Met Office.
Large areas of England and the whole of Wales have already been declared in drought, while authorities warned that additional areas could face drought conditions if the dry weather persists.
Scientists say the latest ocean and land temperature records underscore the growing influence of climate change on global weather patterns.
With El Niño expected to strengthen, experts warn that global temperatures and extreme weather risks could rise further in the coming months.
