Chapter 1: Alarming Temperature Trends

The indicators are alarming. Recent records are not just being surpassed; they are being obliterated, with changes occurring at an unprecedented pace,” stated António Guterres, the UN Secretary-General, in reference to the extreme global heat observed last year.

According to the Copernicus Climate Change Service, the primary agency for climate monitoring in the European Union, June marked the thirteenth consecutive month to establish a new monthly temperature record, showing an increase of 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. This rise has intensified heatwaves, extreme precipitation events, and droughts, while contributing to the melting of ice sheets, sea ice, and glaciers. Furthermore, both sea levels and ocean temperatures are escalating alarmingly.

The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) revealed that over ten countries have recorded temperatures exceeding 50°C this year. Carlo Buontempo, director of Copernicus, cautioned that the trend of unprecedented records shows no signs of abating. “Even if this string of extremes comes to a halt, new records are inevitable as long as the climate keeps warming. This will only change if we cease the emission of greenhouse gases into our atmosphere and oceans,” he said.

The prospect of temperature moderation seems increasingly unlikely. Preliminary data from the Copernicus ERA5 satellite indicated that July 22 was the hottest day ever documented on Earth, with a global average surface air temperature of 17.15°C.

Herrera expressed optimism that alerts concerning extreme weather will better prepare the world for future challenges, helping to mitigate risks to human life, infrastructure, and economies. “During extreme weather conditions, both humans and other species face heightened vulnerabilities,” he remarked.

Chapter 2: Breaking National Records

This year has seen temperature records being set or equaled in numerous countries and territories. For instance, on February 28, the Cocos Islands recorded their all-time high temperature of 32.8°C, repeating this feat on February 29 and April 7. Costa Rica broke its national record with a sweltering 41°C at Cerro Huacalito on March 6, which was again surpassed on March 23 with a new high of 41.5°C.

Similarly, Comoros set a new national record with 36.2°C at Hahaya airport on March 12, while on March 13, the Republic of Congo reached its highest temperature of 39.6°C in Impfondo. The Maldives recorded a new national high of 35.1°C in Hanimadhoo on March 24, which was matched again on April 11.

On April 3, Mali reached a scorching 48.5°C in Kayes, and on May 1, Ghana recorded its highest temperature of 44.6°C in Navrongo. This climate pattern underscores the urgent need for coordinated global action. It is not merely about decelerating global warming but also about adapting to new realities that are increasingly impacting entire communities.

Extreme weather events, once deemed rare, are now becoming commonplace, inflicting severe consequences on agriculture, health, and economies.

As Danish philosopher Søren Kierkegaard noted, “Life can only be understood backwards, but it must be lived forwards.” This reflects our current climate predicament. Although we can learn from historical climate patterns, the urgency for action today to ensure a sustainable future has never been more apparent.

The global community is confronted with an unparalleled challenge. It is crucial for governments, businesses, and civil society to collaborate in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating climate change effects. The choices we make today will dictate the fate of our planet and the quality of life for generations to come.

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