Northeast Ocean Temperatures Reach Record High

Federal ocean scientists said this year’s sea surface temperatures along the northeast coast of the U.S. set all-time records, with as-yet unknown consequences for marine ecosystems. Above-average temperatures were found in all parts of the ecosystem, from the ocean bottom to the sea surface. The average sea surface temperature exceeded 51 degrees during the first half of 2012, topping the previous record high set in 1951. The average sea surface temperature the past three decades has ranged around 48 degrees.

More...