Researchers based in Seattle did have predicted quite hot and dry summer. But this year's hottest days in places like Puget Sound have been witnessing way beyond what was predicted by scientists. There have been record- breaking heat-waves, less snowpack and unrelenting drought.

University of Washington climate scientist Nick Bond was of the view that they did have expected the conditions to be worse, but this extreme. On Thursday, scientists from county, state, and federal agencies have raised concerns with regard to ecological consequences of such activities in the Puget Sound.

Scientists stated that they have been trying to the impact of warming water on marine life. Already, changes can be seen with rise in the population of toxic algae and more number of reports of dead fish.

Researchers have affirmed that unusually warm water in the South Puget Sound, Hood Canal and the main basin have led to warm water both in deep and surface waters. Jan Newton, UW oceanographer, said that at some places, the temperature has crossed 4 degrees above normal.

Hood Canal is low on oxygen content. Therefore, the researchers think that rising temperature and low oxygen levels will prove a challenge for local organisms. Newton said that they are quite concerned about the fish kills and will continue to monitor the situation.

Jerry Borchert of the Washington State Department of Health's shellfish-safety program said that marine life has already started to face the heat. This past April, a shellfish harvest was closed. Many parts of Hood Canal were shut down due to increased toxin concentrations.