Year 2024 poised to break global temperature records: WMO

New Delhi: The world is experiencing unprecedented warming with 2024 poised to become the hottest year on record, surpassing the previous record in 2023, according to new data released by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) ahead of COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan.

WMO’s global temperature analysis covers January to September 2024 and is based on six international datasets to provide a consolidated temperature assessment.

While the report highlights some success stories from countries like the Seychelles, Mauritius, Laos and Ireland in developing effective climate services, evidence reveals that the climate crisis is escalating globally.

October 2024 marked the second warmest October on record following October last year, according to the ERA5 dataset from Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres said, “Today, the World Meteorological Organization and partners tell us that 2024 is on track to be the hottest year ever recorded – almost two months before it ends,” said Mr Guterres. “Humanity’s torching the planet and paying the price”.

This alarming trend coincides with increasing-related disasters. Between 2020 and mid-2024, heat-related hazards emerged as the deadliest weather threat, accounting for 57 percent of reported weather, climate, and water-related deaths globally.

“In the face of unprecedented environmental challenges, the development, delivery and use of climate information to enable climate action has never been more crucial,” emphasized WMO Secretary General Celeste Saulo.

The State of Climate Services report highlights both progress and persistent challenges in delivering critical climate information. While one-third of National Meteorological and Hydrological Services (NMHSs) now provide essential climate services, significant funding gaps remain.

Of the $63 billion allocated to climate adaptation, only about $4 to $5billion explicitly supports climate services and early warning activities.

“We need to make necessary investments for a sustainable future, The cost of no action is several times higher than the cost of action,” Ms. Saulo stressed, highlighting the critical need to support NMHSs in developing early warning systems and delivering climate services.

As per the official statement, “More details will be provided in the WMO’s State of the Climate 2024 Update, released on 11 November 2024 at COP29”

“This will address key climate indicators including the global average near surface temperature, ocean heat, sea level rise, sea ice and glaciers. It will also provide information on extreme weather and climate events and impacts on sustainable development.” it said.