Southland’s ocean waters are warming more quickly than in many other parts of the world, according to a new report.
Over the past ten years, sea surface temperatures around Southland, especially outside Fiordland, have risen by an average of 0.4 degrees Celsius. This increase is about 34% faster than the global average.
Experts warn that although the warmer water might seem good for swimming, it could cause serious problems for sea life and fishing. Warmer seas can change the way ocean animals live and grow, and can even affect the food we get from the ocean.
Karen Wilson, a science manager at Environment Southland, explained that the ocean works like a giant sponge, soaking up heat from the air. This helps stop the land from getting too hot but leads to changes in the sea.
Rising ocean temperatures can also lead to more extreme weather, rising sea levels, and problems like coral bleaching. They can also affect ocean currents and the balance of nutrients that many sea creatures depend on.
Changes in the climate, along with natural events like El Niño and La Niña, are all making these warming effects stronger. Similar warming has been noticed along the east coast of the South Island too.
Scientists are continuing to watch these changes closely to understand what they mean for the future of New Zealand’s marine life and environment.
