Warmer than California! Sea temperature on the south coast hits 20.4C
Britain has been enjoying such a balmy summer that sea temperatures on the south west coast have hit a seven-year high.
British seas are currently warmer than California's, according to a study by British oceanographers at the Plymouth Coastal Observatory.
Scientists say the highest water temperature was at Start Bay in Devon where it has hit 20.4C, making it even warmer that Santa Monica beach in LA where the temperature is 19.4C.
Places like Perranporth in Cornwall are also experiencing warmer waters than the California holiday hotspot.
Researchers at Plymouth Marine Laboratories said strong sunlight and light winds were behind the balmy temp boost.
Dr Tim Smyth told the Daily Mail: "We were looking at an average year until June but over the last six weeks temperatures have risen quickly. It is not surprising because there has been a lot of sunlight and calm weather but, crucially, mild nights too, so less heat is lost."
According to the Independent, Malcolm Bell of Visit Cornwall, told The Times: "We estimate that 10 per cent to 15 per cent of people leave their holiday decisions until the last moment and this might bring them our way.
"With temperatures about 25C (77F) and the sea at 20C (68F), it is close to perfect for Brits who don't like Mediterranean heat."
The BBC reports that durfer Rebecca Pepperell, 33, happily tweeted about the rising temperature.
She said: "I was in California last October and the temperatures were comparable.
"I wasn't wearing a wetsuit and you don't expect to be able to do that in your own backyard.
"Everyone is enjoying it while they can."
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