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New Marine Heatwave Threatens Marine Life and Ecosystems

9/27/2025

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Summary

Story summary

A new marine heatwave emerged in May 2025, comparable to the contiguous United States.
It follows the 2013-2016 Pacific "blob," which re-emerged in July 2019.
Temperature increases of 4-10 degrees raise risks for marine life, triggering toxic algae and diminishing food supplies for fish and seabirds.
NOAA Fisheries scientists monitor conditions and compare with past events to anticipate effects.

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Story summary

A new marine heatwave emerged in May 2025, comparable to the contiguous United States.
It follows the 2013-2016 Pacific "blob," which re-emerged in July 2019.
Temperature increases of 4-10 degrees raise risks for marine life, triggering toxic algae and diminishing food supplies for fish and seabirds.
NOAA Fisheries scientists monitor conditions and compare with past events to anticipate effects.