Asia is heating up at nearly twice the global average rate, according to the latest report from the World Meteorological Organization (WMO). The region has recorded unprecedented land and sea surface temperatures through 2024 and 2025, highlighting the escalating impacts of climate change across the continent.
Record Sea Surface Temperatures and Marine Heatwaves
The WMO notes that sea surface temperatures in key Asian waters—including the Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal, and western Pacific—have reached record highs, driving what scientists are calling the most severe marine heatwaves on record. These prolonged stretches of abnormally warm ocean water are threatening fisheries, disrupting marine ecosystems, and causing large-scale coral bleaching.
Broader Climate Impacts Across Asia
Experts warn that the intensified marine heatwaves are part of a broader pattern of climate disruption across Asia, including stronger tropical storms, erratic monsoon behavior, and more frequent extreme weather events. The consequences are already being felt by millions of people who rely on stable coastal and agricultural systems.
Urgent Call for Regional Cooperation
“The pace of warming in Asia is alarming,” the WMO report stated, emphasizing the need for urgent regional cooperation on climate adaptation and mitigation. Scientists caution that without decisive global action, the continent’s food security, livelihoods, and ecosystems will continue to face escalating risks.
