East Coast Estuaries Facing Increased Marine Heat Waves by 2100

**A groundbreaking study by William & Mary's Batten School and VIMS** predicts that East Coast estuaries in the U.S. will experience marine heat wave conditions up to a third of the year by 2100. These estuaries, crucial for nearly 75% of fish species and supporting over 54 million jobs, face potential ecological and economic crises. The study, published in *Nature Scientific Reports*, utilized long-term monitoring data from NOAA's National Estuarine Research Reserve (NERR) program. **Key findings show a rise in marine heat wave frequency**, particularly in the Chesapeake Bay, which already endures these conditions for 6% of the year. The study underscores the need for urgent policy action and environmental management to protect these ecosystems. In contrast, West Coast estuaries did not exhibit significant warming trends, possibly due to regional upwelling. The research emphasizes the importance of understanding climatic variables and atmospheric heat exchange as dominant heat wave drivers. As part of his master's thesis, researcher Ricardo Nardi aims to further explore the connection between estuaries and open-ocean processes to inform future conservation efforts.