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.

www.theguardian.com

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