Sunday marked a historic day as President Joe Biden unexpectedly withdrew from the presidential race. It was also the hottest day on record, with a global average temperature of 62.76 degrees Fahrenheit. This surpassed the previous record set on July 6 of the previous year. The planet has been experiencing record temperatures for the past 13 consecutive months, from the hottest year in 2023 to the hottest month last July. Carlo Buontempo, director of the European Union’s Copernicus service, expressed that the difference between the recent temperatures and previous records is significant, indicating an uncharted territory in terms of climate change.
The rise in global temperatures is attributed to carbon emissions, with an average increase of 0.36 degrees Fahrenheit per decade since 1982. Last year was already recognized as the hottest year on record, with 10 of the warmest years occurring in the past decade. The influence of El Niño, a warm band of Pacific Ocean water, and North Atlantic warming have also contributed to the current heatwave and extreme weather patterns.
The Atlantic Ocean is experiencing high temperatures, fueling hurricanes like Hurricane Beryl. Forecasters predict an active hurricane season due to these warm waters. While natural variability may play a role in temperature fluctuations, human-induced warming remains a significant factor. The past year has been exceptionally hot, raising concerns about the planet’s future in the face of climate change.
Despite potential relief with the end of El Niño and the possible formation of La Niña, the planet is facing an uncertain and perilous future as it continues to experience record-breaking temperatures. In the midst of these challenges, maintaining a sustainable approach to climate action is crucial.
