A lengthy marine heatwave boosted the power of Storm Babet in 2023A lengthy marine heatwave in the North Sea played a significant role in intensifying the impacts of Storm Babet in 2023, according to new research. The marine heatwave lasted almost seven weeks, from 1 September to 21 October 2023, warming the seas by around 0.8-1 °C. Long-term warming is reflected in the rising occurrence of marine heatwaves, and the near disappearance of marine cold spells. “This long-term warming is reflected in the rising occurrence of marine heatwaves, and the near disappearance of marine cold spells,” she said. Without significant reductions in global emissions, near permanent marine heatwave conditions around the UK could emerge as early as mid-century, she warned.