January 2025 has been recorded as the warmest January, with temperatures 1.75°C above the pre-industrial average. This warmth persists despite La Nina conditions, which usually cool the climate. Notably, temperature records have been broken globally, indicating significant climate anomalies throughout both hemispheres.
In January 2025, global average temperatures surpassed the previous record for the month, registering a 1.75°C rise above the pre-industrial average, as indicated by the ERA5 dataset analyzed by climate scientists. This warmth was evident across both hemispheres despite La Nina conditions typically leading to cooler temperatures. Historical temperature records were broken in locations such as Jamaica and Madagascar, showcasing the anomaly.
This unprecedented January warmth occurred during ongoing La Nina conditions in the equatorial Pacific, which typically fosters cooler global temperatures. The current situation is unique as it is the first occurrence of a January with such high temperatures not associated with preceding El Nino years. Understanding the dynamics of climate systems like ENSO is critical to grasping the implications of continued greenhouse gas emissions.
The significant warmth experienced in January 2025 raises concerns regarding future temperature trends, defying expectations set by the presence of La Nina. Climate scientists, including those from Berkeley Earth, note that the anomaly may indicate a change in the expected cooling that typically accompanies La Nina conditions. Continuous monitoring and analysis will be necessary to understand the drivers of this unexpected warmth.
Original Source: www.downtoearth.org.in
