Summer 2024 has been declared the hottest on record by the European climate service Copernicus, raising concerns that this year could surpass all previous measurements in terms of global temperatures. The average temperature for the northern meteorological summer (June, July, and August) was 16.8 degrees Celsius, slightly warmer than the previous record set in 2023. This trend aligns with the ongoing impact of human-caused climate change, exacerbated by factors like El Nino.
Both August 2024 and 2023 tied for the hottest Augusts globally, while July narrowly missed setting a new record. The overall summer temperatures for 2024 were significantly higher than the previous year, indicating a worrying trend of escalating heat levels. Climate scientists emphasize that these rising temperatures are symptomatic of a deepening climate crisis that is affecting people worldwide.
Experts predict that 2024 is likely to become the warmest year on record unless there is a significant cooling trend in the remaining months. While a La Nina event may bring temporary relief in the latter part of the year, it is not expected to prevent 2024 from breaking the annual temperature record. The persistent heatwaves and extreme weather events associated with climate change are causing widespread suffering and economic losses.
Climate scientists warn that prolonged heatwaves, droughts, floods, and wildfires are becoming more frequent and severe, posing a growing threat to communities around the globe. The absence of a strong El Nino effect this year underscores the dominant role of human-induced climate change in driving these extreme weather patterns.
As temperatures continue to rise, the urgency of addressing climate change becomes increasingly evident. The need for concerted global action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate the impacts of a warming planet is more pressing than ever.
For more climate news and updates, visit AP's Climate Coverage.
