In April 2024, the Earth experienced its 11th consecutive month of record-breaking heat. The warmer weather has been sweeping across Asia, with a hotter-than-usual summer expected in Europe. Last month’s temperatures globally were 1.58C (2.8F) above historical averages, making it the hottest April on record.
According to Copernicus Director Carlo Buontempo, the additional energy trapped in the ocean and atmosphere due to increasing greenhouse gas concentrations will continue to push global temperatures to new records. While temperature fluctuations related to natural cycles like El Niño may come and go, the impact of climate change will persist.
In Bangkok, Thailand, a man unloads blocks of ice from a truck amidst high temperatures on Sunday, April 28, 2024. Southeast Asia’s second-largest economy has been preparing for hotter-than-normal days as a result of the El Niño weather pattern forecasted to last until June. This article highlights the ongoing trend of record-breaking heat and the potential consequences of rising global temperatures.
Copernicus is the world’s largest provider of climate data and utilizes data from billions of measurements collected from satellites, ships, aircraft, and weather stations worldwide for its monthly and seasonal forecasts. The program has reported that over the past 12 months, temperatures have been 1.61C higher than pre-industrial levels, surpassing the 1.5C threshold that could pose a threat to life on the planet.
As we continue to experience record-breaking heat and rising global temperatures, it is essential that we take immediate action to mitigate their effects and ensure a sustainable future for generations to come.