The year 2024 has recorded an average temperature that is 1.6 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, marking a 0.1-degree increase from 2023. This trend emphasizes a critical climate emergency driven primarily by the burning of fossil fuels.
The Copernicus Climate Change Service reported that 44% of the global population experienced strong to extreme heat stress on July 10, 2024, with the hottest day in recorded history occurring on July 22. These extreme temperatures, coupled with record levels of water vapor in the atmosphere, have led to unprecedented heatwaves and intense rainfall, causing suffering for millions.
Dr. Samantha Burgess from Copernicus stated that there is a significant likelihood of exceeding the long-term average temperature of 1.5 degrees Celsius. The climate crisis continues to escalate, as evidenced by various disasters exacerbated by climate change, including floods, hurricanes, and droughts.
Experts emphasize the need for immediate action to transition away from fossil fuels, halt deforestation, and enhance societal resilience. Carbon emissions in 2024 are estimated to have reached a new record, indicating a lack of progress in shifting from fossil fuels, despite commitments made at the UN climate conference in Dubai in December 2023.
As the world prepares for new commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in February, the urgent call for climate action remains clear. The average person faced an additional six weeks of dangerous heat days last year, highlighting the severe impact of heatwaves worldwide.