A new study published in Nature Geoscience highlights the dangers of Earth’s future climate, warning that a supercontinent and extreme heat conditions could spell the end of life on the planet. Researchers from the University of Bristol predict that merging continents will lead to a “triple whammy” effect, characterized by increased temperature fluctuations, a hotter sun, and rising CO2 levels.
The formation of Pangea Ultima, a supercontinent formed through gradual continental merger, would significantly alter the planet’s climate. This, in turn, would exacerbate heatwaves due to reduced oceanic influence. As the sun continues to brighten, releasing more energy, and carbon dioxide levels rise due to geological processes like volcanic eruptions, the environment becomes increasingly hostile.
Simulations predict that future temperatures could regularly exceed 40°C to 50°C (104°F to 122°F), with daily extremes reaching even higher levels due to intense heat and high humidity. This would make survival near impossible for most mammals, including humans.
The study also emphasizes the role of CO2 and volcanic activity in intensifying global warming. Rising CO2 levels are projected to exceed 400 parts per million, creating a greenhouse effect that further intensifies heatwaves. Volcanic eruptions will release even more CO2 into the atmosphere, exacerbating the problem.
While the study paints a grim picture, researchers stress that understanding Earth’s long-term climate trends is crucial. By mitigating current climate change impacts, life on Earth can remain habitable for the foreseeable future. However, natural forces have already set in motion changes to the planet’s structure and climate, which could have irreversible consequences.
The findings suggest that the end of life on Earth may not be caused by human actions alone but by the natural forces of the planet working over millions of years to create a hostile environment.
Source: https://dailygalaxy.com/2025/04/researchers-forecast-end-life-earth-closer