Winter Sea Temperatures Reach Record Levels Near Iceland

2026-03-11 - 10:46

Ocean measurements collected during a recent winter expedition indicate unusually high sea temperatures in waters around Iceland, according to preliminary findings from the Marine and Freshwater Research Institute. The research vessel Þórunn Þórðardóttir research vessel completed a 15-day survey on 17 February as part of the institute’s long-running marine monitoring programme. What's the Story? Winter ocean survey around Iceland by the Marine and Freshwater Research Institute (Iceland) aboard the research vessel Þórunn Þórðardóttir research vessel Measurements at about 100 monitoring stations, including temperature, salinity, nutrients, oxygen and ocean currents Record winter sea temperatures recorded in Atlantic waters south and west of Iceland, including 8.55 °C at Selvogsbanki station The Marine and Freshwater Research Institute. Photo: Svanhildur Egilsdóttir. Research expedition findings The Marine and Freshwater Research Institute’s monitoring programme has been conducted several times each year since 1970. Scientists gathered environmental data across roughly 100 sampling stations around Iceland to track long-term changes in ocean conditions. Researchers recorded temperature and salinity profiles at ten transects extending from the coast, while also collecting water samples to analyse nutrients, oxygen levels and inorganic carbon. New instruments were used to measure ocean currents, temperature and carbon dioxide levels down to depths of 1,000 metres. Preliminary results show temperatures in the upper 200 metres of the ocean were generally above the long-term average. Coast Guard vessel Freyja at sea. Photo: Guðmundur Valdimarsson. In Atlantic waters south and west of Iceland, some winter measurements reached record levels. At the Selvogsbanki monitoring station, temperatures were recorded at 8.55°C. Scientists also observed high salinity and temperature readings near Stokksnes, while in northern waters Atlantic currents extended unusually far eastwards beneath the surface. The monitoring programme aims to improve understanding of how climate variability affects the marine environment. Researchers note that further study is required to determine how these patterns relate to long-term ocean circulation changes.