Preprints  

In 2024, the Mediterranean Sea experienced more marine heatwave days than any other year in the past two decades, regardless of the detection method: a fixed baseline (1982–2011), a 20-year moving baseline, or detrended temperature data. The eastern Mediterranean also recorded the highest mean durations across all methods and mean intensities under the fixed baseline. Stating the baseline used is critical in marine heatwave studies, as it affects comparability and interpretation of results.

Understanding how the ocean moves heat, nutrients, and pollution is vital for climate studies and ecosystem health. We examined eddies in the western Mediterranean Sea using innovative satellite observations from the Surface Water and Ocean Topography mission. Compared to existing data, we detected major differences in eddy patterns. These advances improve our ability to monitor the ocean, manage marine pollution, and support sustainable maritime activities.