The WMO’s annual State of the Climate report reveals that 2024 likely broke records, becoming the first year to exceed 1.5°C above the pre-industrial temperature average. Greenhouse gas levels reached their highest in 800,000 years, and a surge in extreme weather events was documented, illustrating the urgent need for aggressive climate action and a transition to clean energy.
Climate change remains humanity’s most urgent challenge this century. Recent findings from the World Meteorological Organization’s annual State of the Climate report underscore this urgency, indicating that 2024 has likely become the first year to exceed 1.5°C above the pre-industrial temperature average. Concurrently, greenhouse gas concentrations soared to their highest levels in 800,000 years, further exacerbating the situation.
The report highlights alarming data from the past year, with global average temperatures rising 1.55°C (±0.13°C) compared to 1850-1900 averages, marking 2024 as the warmest year in modern history. There has been a notable increase in global temperatures over the last two years, a worrying trend linked to human-induced climate change. The influence of the El Niño phenomenon and decreased pollution levels has also contributed to this record heat.
In addition to rising temperatures, other critical factors are manifesting in record-breaking statistics. Carbon dioxide concentrations reached 427 parts per million, and sea levels ascended approximately 11 centimeters higher than in the early 1990s. Notably, glacial melt, ocean acidification, and decreased seasonal sea ice are additional concerns reflected in the report.
Extreme weather events have disproportionately impacted various regions across the globe. In addition to well-publicized incidents like Hurricane Helene in the U.S., significant natural disasters occurred in Asia and Africa, including Super Typhoon Yagi and Cyclone Chido, which resulted in numerous fatalities and widespread devastation. Southern Africa and much of South America faced some of the worst drought conditions recorded, with several Amazon tributaries drying up.
As the consequences of climate change become increasingly apparent, the report serves as a sobering reminder of the need for substantial action. Despite recognizing the fundamental mechanisms of greenhouse gas warming for over a century, global responses continue to fall short. Inaction in combating emissions ensures that the detrimental impacts of climate change will persist, highlighting the critical need for a transition to clean energy and a commitment to achieve net-zero emissions.
The World Meteorological Organization’s report illustrates the alarming escalation of climate change impacts seen in 2024. With the Earth experiencing unprecedented temperature rises, extreme weather events, and significant environmental shifts, it is clear that urgent and sustained actions are necessary. Addressing greenhouse gas emissions and transitioning to renewable energy are paramount in mitigating further climate-related disasters and ensuring a stable future for our planet.
Original Source: eveningreport.nz
