In 2024, climate change has resulted in unprecedented extreme weather and record heat, with the United Nations declaring it set to be the warmest year ever recorded. Greenhouse gas emissions have reached new highs, worsening future heat risks. The WMO reports indicate that urgent measures are needed to combat climate change and reduce emissions significantly by 2025.
The United Nations has reported that climate change has led to unprecedented extreme weather and record heat conditions in 2024, which is projected to be the hottest year on record. The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) stated that greenhouse gas emissions reached an all-time high, exacerbating future warming risks. Celeste Saulo, WMO Secretary-General, emphasized the visible impacts of climate change through increased extreme weather incidents across the globe, including devastating floods and intense heat waves with temperatures exceeding 50 degrees Celsius in multiple regions.
The past decade has witnessed the worst heat levels, with the WMO’s data indicating that the average surface temperature from January to September 2024 was 1.54 degrees Celsius higher than pre-industrial averages (1850-1900). This rise positions 2024 to eclipse the previous record set in 2023. The WMO will release the final global temperature report for 2024 in January, with a comprehensive State of the Global Climate report to follow in March.
In a New Year message, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres described the last ten years as a decade of severe heat, asserting, “This is climate breakdown in real time.” He called for urgent action to transition to renewable energy and significantly reduce emissions by 2025. WMO’s efforts to develop a coordinated strategy to confront rising heat dangers included a recent assembly of experts in Geneva to discuss viable solutions, with a focus on enhancing climate services and early warning systems as the organization nears its 75th anniversary in 2025.
The increasing frequency and severity of extreme weather events can be directly attributed to climate change, a critical global issue exemplified by record temperatures and rising greenhouse gas emissions. The WMO’s annual report highlights these concerns as the world grapples with unprecedented heat levels and the consequences on communities worldwide. The ongoing commitment to the Paris Agreement is essential for maintaining global temperature increases below 1.5 to 2 degrees Celsius, particularly as the impending climate crisis becomes more pronounced with each passing year.
The findings and warnings presented by the United Nations regarding climate change in 2024 underscore an urgent need for global action. As temperatures reach record highs and extreme weather becomes commonplace, the emphasis must be placed on reducing greenhouse gas emissions and transitioning to renewable energy sources. The collaboration of international organizations and nations is vital in confronting the ongoing threats presented by climate change, ensuring a sustainable future for the planet.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
