More climate records fall in world's warmest February

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February 2024 has marked another milestone in the ongoing climate crisis, as it emerged as the warmest February on record in modern times, according to the EU's climate service. This extends a streak of nine consecutive months of record-breaking temperatures, each surpassing the previous highs.

 

The surge in temperatures since June 2023 has been unprecedented, with global sea surface temperatures reaching their highest levels on record. Antarctic sea-ice has also experienced extreme lows, further emphasizing the severity of the warming trend.

 

 

While the Pacific's El Niño weather event has contributed to the recent warmth, human-induced climate change remains the primary driver. Prof Celeste Saulo, Secretary General of the World Meteorological Organization, emphasized the role of heat-trapping greenhouse gases in fueling the unprecedented warming.

 

Carbon dioxide concentrations, at their highest level in at least two million years, continue to rise rapidly, exacerbating the climate crisis. February 2024 was approximately 1.77°C warmer than pre-industrial times, with temperatures soaring particularly in western Australia, southeast Asia, southern Africa, and South America.

 

 

The relentless warming trend brings the global average temperature 1.56°C above pre-industrial levels over the past 12 months, with the first year-long breach of the 1.5°C threshold confirmed recently. This threshold, outlined in the Paris Agreement, aims to limit global warming to mitigate the worst impacts of climate change.

 

Despite efforts to address climate change, such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions, the world is perilously close to surpassing critical temperature thresholds. The magnitude of warming extends beyond air temperatures, affecting various climate metrics, including sea surface temperatures and Antarctic sea-ice extent.

 

Researchers warn that the persistent and unusually high ocean temperatures worldwide cannot be solely attributed to El Niño, raising concerns about the long-term implications for coral reefs, sea-level rise, and extreme weather events like hurricanes.

 

While the current El Niño event is gradually weakening, the World Meteorological Organization anticipates its continued influence on temperatures for the next few months. However, a transition to neutral conditions in the Pacific and potentially to La Niña could temporarily stabilize temperatures.

 

 

Nevertheless, the long-term trajectory of global temperatures will continue to rise as long as greenhouse gas emissions persist. Urgent action is needed to transition away from fossil fuels toward renewable energy sources to mitigate the devastating impacts of climate change on lives, livelihoods, and the planet.

 

08.03.24

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