A new study has found that the average global temperature in 2023 was 1.45 degrees Celsius (2.61 degrees Fahrenheit) above pre-industrial levels, making it the warmest year on record. The findings, published by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), also indicate that the past nine years were the warmest ever recorded.
The WMO report, released on Tuesday, stated that the record-breaking temperatures were driven by a combination of long-term climate change and the El Niño weather phenomenon. The organization warned that these extreme temperatures have led to a surge in heatwaves, droughts, floods, and wildfires across the globe, causing widespread devastation and displacement.
“We are in uncharted territory,” said WMO Secretary-General Petteri Taalas in a statement. “The data clearly shows that human-induced climate change is accelerating, and the impacts are becoming more severe. We must take urgent action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to the changes that are already underway.”
The report also highlighted the significant impact of rising temperatures on sea levels, ice melt, and ocean acidification. Sea levels reached a new record high in 2023, and glaciers continued to shrink at an alarming rate. Ocean heat content also hit unprecedented levels, threatening marine ecosystems and the livelihoods of millions of people.
The WMO urged governments to strengthen their climate action plans and invest in renewable energy sources. The organization also called for increased international cooperation to address the global climate crisis.
“The science is unequivocal,” Taalas added. “We have the knowledge and the tools to tackle climate change, but we need the political will and the collective action to make it happen. The future of our planet depends on it.