Ocean Temperatures Reach Record High in July

Why it matters locally: While Virginia's coastline is not directly experiencing the most extreme temperature increases, rising ocean temperatures can contribute to increased storm intensity and sea-level rise, which are concerns for coastal communities in the Commonwealth.

Global oceans registered their warmest July on record. This temperature increase occurred as meteorologists noted developing El Niño conditions. Simultaneously, wildfires continued to affect areas of western Europe during the same period.