A Heated Case for Sustained Ocean Observations

Marine heatwaves are a significant ecological and socioeconomic threat, worldwide, and have been increasing in both duration and frequency, a trend that is likely to continue. Though heatwaves at the sea surface can be characterized and studied using satellite products, little is known at depth, despite their impact on benthic ecosystems. This session will focus on how sustained ocean observations can help understand and predict these phenomena so that mankind can prepare for, and mitigate, their effects.