Annual Climate Summary 2024
The Annual mean land surface air temperature averaged over India during 2024 was +0.65°C above the long-term average (Period 1991-2020). This marked the warmest year since nationwide records began in 1901, surpassing the highest temperature observed… pic.twitter.com/jdg8cnm6MW
— India Meteorological Department (@Indiametdept) January 15, 2025
China’s coastal waters reached record-high temperatures in 2024, raising concerns about the impacts of climate change on marine ecosystems and the environment. Meteorologists attribute the rising sea temperatures to global warming and local factors. The high temperatures threaten marine life, disrupt fishing, and could lead to more extreme weather.
The global ocean surface temperature was still above average going into 2025. 2024 was the warmest year ever measured for the global ocean, continuing a warming trend since 1984. Warmer oceans can cause heavier rains in some areas and droughts in others.
Both 2023 and 2024 were significantly warmer than we'd expect based on the approximately linear rate of warming (and variations around that trend) the world has experienced since 1970.
It is further evidence that the rate of warming may be accelerating. pic.twitter.com/ZAHUh3jWL1
— Zeke Hausfather (@hausfath) January 12, 2025
They also fuel hurricanes, harm coral reefs, and alter weather patterns on land.
From air and sea surface temperatures, to greenhouse gas concentrations, sea ice cover and heat stress, explore and download the charts of the Global Climate Highlights 2024 easily from our gallery: https://t.co/xeZ6R7zdzm pic.twitter.com/aCEMJF2QdC
— Copernicus ECMWF (@CopernicusECMWF) January 15, 2025
The EU’s Copernicus Climate Change Service announced that 2024 broke the record for global temperatures, about 2.9°F (1.6°C) above pre-industrial times. Many regions were significantly warmer than the 1991-2020 average.
Greenhouse gases trap heat, much of which is absorbed by the ocean. However, the recent ocean temperature rise has been far above previous decades, leaving two mysteries for scientists. The El Niño climate pattern can explain some of the warmth, but oceans have been warmer than expected.
The amount of water in the atmosphere hit a record high in 2024 with 4.9% above the 1991–2020 average. This trend heightens the potential for extreme rainfall events. Explore the Global Climate Highlights 2024 report: https://t.co/s3JeRjZUyg #C3S #GCH2024 pic.twitter.com/HAfBr157Va
— Copernicus ECMWF (@CopernicusECMWF) January 15, 2025
A rapid reduction in aerosols over the past decade might also be a factor. Aerosols can reflect solar radiation back into space, counteracting some effects of greenhouse gases.
Rising ocean heat impacts environment
Scientists are also trying to determine if the planet is experiencing a surge in warming. While temperatures are rising, the past two years haven’t been warm enough to conclusively suggest an acceleration. However, the extreme weather, heat waves, wildfires, and ecosystem destruction underscore the urgent need to reduce carbon dioxide emissions.
The ocean, which covers 70% of Earth’s surface, is reaching unprecedented high temperatures throughout the upper 2,000 meters (6,561 feet). A new study by Professor Lijing Cheng and a team of 54 scientists from seven countries highlights this alarming fact. The ocean plays a critical role in Earth’s climate system by absorbing 90% of the heat from global warming and regulating weather patterns.
Research confirms that ocean heat content reached record levels in 2024, with the upper layers absorbing unprecedented amounts of heat. Ongoing ocean warming has profound consequences, including amplifying extreme weather, intensifying storms, droughts, wildfires, and flooding. Over the past year, 104 countries experienced their hottest temperatures on record, and climate-related disasters have led to nearly $3 trillion in damages in the US since 1980.
The rise in ocean surface temperatures plays a critical role in these impacts. Warmer waters disrupt marine life, erode coastal habitats, and increase the frequency and intensity of storms. Dr. Karina von Schuckmann described the ocean as a sentinel for planetary warming, emphasizing the need for immediate action to combat climate change.
The findings serve as a critical reminder that addressing ocean warming is essential to safeguarding Earth’s climate and humanity’s future. If urgent mitigation efforts are not taken, the consequences will grow increasingly severe.
Rashan is a seasoned technology journalist and visionary leader serving as the Editor-in-Chief of DevX.com, a leading online publication focused on software development, programming languages, and emerging technologies. With his deep expertise in the tech industry and her passion for empowering developers, Rashan has transformed DevX.com into a vibrant hub of knowledge and innovation. Reach out to Rashan at [email protected]
