Heatwave blankets the globe, raising climate concerns

The Earth has experienced a continuous 12-month period of temperatures 1.5C above pre-industrial levels, according to new data.

Ajit Niranjan reports for The Guardian.

In short:

• Between July 2023 and June 2024, global temperatures were the highest on record, 1.64C above pre-industrial times.
• Scientists warn of increased exposure to extreme weather and potential climate tipping points due to sustained high temperatures.
• Key climate metrics indicate a worsening trend unless greenhouse gas emissions are drastically reduced.

Key quote:

"This is inevitable unless we stop adding greenhouse gases into the atmosphere and the oceans."

— Carlo Buontempo, director of the Copernicus Climate Change Service

Why this matters:

Sustained high temperatures lead to severe weather events and threaten ecosystems, especially tropical coral reefs. Without significant emission reductions, global warming could exceed critical thresholds, exacerbating human and environmental harm.