Drought, heat waves and extreme weather: the consequences of climate change are felt all over the world. Rising sea temperatures are also causing problems for researchers. Because it allows the spread of dangerous bacteria that cause potentially fatal diseases.

Climate change study: Bacteria multiply rapidly in warm salt water

After the devastating Hurricane Ian caused widespread destruction in Florida last year, dangerous bacteria were released. This was discovered by researchers from the University of Florida and the University of Maryland in a new study published in the journal Science  mBioTo this end, samples were taken after the October 2022 storm and satellite and environmental data were evaluated. Result: Numerous vibrios thrive quickly in warm salt water and multiply especially during hurricanes and floods. Flooding also occurs more and more often in Kassel. Reasons for the post-Hurricane Ian spread include the amount of rainfall, changes in sea surface temperature and the concentration of chlorophyll in the sea. (Karolin Schäfer)