Post-2015 global warming acceleration compresses near-term adaptation timelines
Key Questions
What was the ocean heat record in 2025?
Earth’s oceans hit a record heat level in 2025, absorbing 23 zettajoules, fueling extreme weather. Global SSTs reached record highs, continuing post-2015 warming acceleration.
Could a super El Niño occur in 2026?
Forecasts suggest a strong or 'super' El Niño could return in 2026-27, potentially the strongest in a century, raising risks for the US and Texas. This compresses adaptation timelines.
How vulnerable is Asia-Pacific's ocean economy?
Asia-Pacific's $2-3T ocean economy faces high vulnerability from warming oceans, affecting Indonesia reefs and more. Initiatives like blue bonds aim to address risks.
What is ScenarioMIP-CMIP7?
ScenarioMIP-CMIP7 is the Scenario Model Intercomparison Project for CMIP7, advancing climate projections. It supports understanding rapid warming and ENSO responses.
How are global SSTs projected for 2025-2026?
Global sea surface temperatures are likely to approach record highs in 2025-2026, driven by ongoing ocean heat uptake. This exacerbates extremes worldwide.
What impacts are seen under Antarctica sea ice?
UWM research dives beneath Antarctica sea ice to study climate change effects on ecosystems. Warming accelerates changes in polar regions.
What is the potential for a powerhouse El Niño in 2026-27?
A powerhouse El Niño appears brewing for 2026-27, with tropical cyclones flanking the equator. This could intensify US/TX risks amid super El Niño patterns.
How does post-2015 warming affect adaptation?
Post-2015 global warming acceleration compresses near-term adaptation timelines due to ocean heat, El Niño, and EEI increases. Vulnerabilities span glaciers to AMOC.
2025 ocean heat/SST 23 zettajoules; super El Niño 2026 US/TX risks; Asia-Pacific $2-3T ocean economy vuln (blue bonds/Indonesia reefs); glaciers/N2O/Ant/CA MHW/AMOC/Greenland/EEI/Southern; ScenarioMIP-CMIP7.