Record 33°C sea temperature off Mallorca alarms scientists

A buoy off Mallorca recorded a record Mediterranean sea temperature of 33.02°C, reportedly the highest ever measured in Spanish waters, raising concerns about marine ecosystems and extreme weather. Spain’s Aemet announced the measurement, though port-authority confirmation is pending. The western Mediterranean currently runs about four degrees above its long-term average. Scientists attribute the extreme heat primarily to human-caused climate change. The heat threatens sensitive marine ecosystems and raises the risk of severe autumn storms and torrential rain. Coastal areas barely cool at night, and swimming offers little refreshment.