A widespread marine heatwave is intensifying across major parts of the Indian Ocean, with scientists warning that large stretches of the Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal, and nearby basins are experiencing unusually high sea surface temperatures that could severely disrupt marine ecosystems and coastal livelihoods.
The Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) has issued marine heatwave advisories covering six major oceanic regions, including the Arabian Sea and parts of the Bay of Bengal. According to the agency, significant portions of these waters are now above long-term temperature thresholds, signalling sustained ocean warming that goes beyond normal seasonal variation. Officials say these conditions are being closely monitored due to their potential ecological and economic impact.
The Arabian Sea appears to be the worst affected region, with about 22% of its waters under “Watch” conditions, around 9% in the “Alert” category, and roughly 5% already in “Warning” status. These heat zones extend along India’s western coastline—from Gujarat through Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, and Kerala—before reaching toward Oman. INCOIS classifies these levels based on how much sea surface temperatures exceed historical averages, with “Warning” conditions indicating rises of more than 1°C.
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Scientists warn that such sustained warming can trigger serious underwater consequences. Coral reefs may undergo bleaching, where they lose essential algae and turn white, while fish populations can shift migration patterns or decline. Plankton levels, which form the base of the marine food chain, may also be disrupted, leading to reduced ocean productivity. These changes can ultimately affect fish catches and the livelihoods of coastal fishing communities.
Similar heat stress is also being observed in other regions. The Red Sea and Persian Gulf are reporting impacts across nearly 9% of their waters, while the southern Indian Ocean near Madagascar, Mauritius, and Seychelles shows around 10% affected areas. In the Bay of Bengal, nearly one-fifth of the region is under heat stress, particularly near the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, extending toward Myanmar and Thailand. The South China Sea is also experiencing notable warming, with some areas under severe “Warning” conditions.
Experts caution that marine heatwaves are not isolated events but part of a broader climate-driven trend. Rising ocean temperatures can alter fish migration routes, reduce biodiversity, and weaken food security in regions dependent on marine resources. The situation underscores growing concerns that warming oceans are becoming more frequent and intense, placing long-term pressure on fragile marine ecosystems across the Indian Ocean region.
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