Gulf of Mexico hit highest sea surface temperature in recorded history

Highest temperature on record is now 88 degrees.

This summer has produced some of the hottest temperatures on record. The hot streak of 100+ degree days has not only impacted water and energy supplies, but also the surface temperatures of oceans.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reported that the Gulf of Mexico experienced its highest weekly sea surface temperature average on record. Since 1981, recorded temperatures had never broken 87 degrees, but for the week of August 8 temperatures hit a new average high of 88 degrees — 2.6 degrees higher than the 1991-2020 average.

From the Gulf of Mexico warming trend to impacts on hurricane season, here are four key takeaways from the record-breaking surface temperature increase in the Gulf that prompt concern for Texas residents.