40-year increase in deadly ocean coldwaves, caused by climate change, impacts marine life on east coasts of South Africa and Australia.

Climate change is causing an increase in deadly ocean coldwaves, which can suddenly cool seawater and kill marine life. These coldwaves, characterized by a sudden drop in temperature over a day or two, have become more common over the past four decades due to climate change. Ocean warming has been well-documented, but changes in wind and ocean current patterns can also cause seawater to cool, leading to coldwaves. These coldwaves, the opposite of marine heatwaves, are affecting areas such as the east coasts of South Africa and Australia, potentially putting highly mobile species like sharks in harm's way.

April 15, 2024
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