The Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S) reported that last month was the warmest February on record globally, marking the ninth consecutive month of historically high temperatures worldwide. Climate change, exacerbated by the El Nino weather phenomenon, has led to an onslaught of storms, droughts, and fires. The period from February 2023 to January 2024 saw 12 consecutive months with temperatures 1.5 degrees Celsius higher than the pre-industrial era, a trend continuing in February. The month was 1.77 degrees Celsius warmer than the pre-industrial reference period. The heat has damaged slopes, impacting skiing activities, and Europe experienced its second warmest winter on record. Sea surface temperatures set a new record, reaching just over 21 degrees Celsius. Scientists emphasize that human-induced greenhouse gas emissions are the primary cause of these unprecedented temperature increases, urging a transition to sustainable, renewable energy sources to mitigate climate change’s severe impacts on lives and livelihoods. The report concludes that the world is entering “uncharted territory,” presenting unprecedented challenges to cities, cultures, transportation, and energy systems.
Source – CGTN