The world is on track to experience its hottest year on record in 2024, surpassing the previous record for the second consecutive year. Scientists attribute this warming trend to a combination of natural variability and human influences, such as greenhouse gas emissions. The past year saw record-breaking temperatures worldwide, with devastating heatwaves and massive hurricanes affecting various regions.
According to Climate Central’s Kristina Dahl, vice president for policy, “Climate change is certainly having its fingerprint on everything in the atmosphere.” The Woodwell Climate Research Center’s Jennifer Francis notes that human-caused changes to the climate system are contributing to more surface heating. Additionally, shifting wind patterns and darker surfaces exposed by melting ice and snow are absorbing more sunshine, exacerbating the warming trend.
Natural fluctuations in temperature may lead to a cooler year in 2025 if La Niña develops, but scientists warn that this trend will continue unless humans stop releasing greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. The World Meteorological Organization has reported that La Niña is likely to be weak and short-lived, making it unlikely to offset the warming trend.
As extreme weather events become more frequent and intense, it’s essential to acknowledge the impact of human activities on the Earth’s climate. Every broken record, every natural disaster, and every environmental degradation serves as a reminder of our abuse of the planet.
Source: https://eu.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2024/12/31/2024-the-hottest-year-on-record/77267001007