2023 Confirmed as Hottest Year Ever Due to Climate Change – El Niño Amplifies Impact.
The year 2023 has been officially declared the hottest on record, surpassing the long-term average by 1.48°C. Human-induced climate change, coupled with the El Niño weather phenomenon, contributed to this unprecedented warmth.
Almost every day since July experienced new global air temperature highs. Sea surface temperatures also hit record levels.
The UK saw its second warmest year, contributing to global records that challenge international climate targets. Scientists express surprise at the extent of temperature increases, especially during the second half of the year.
The rise is linked to an early and unusually strong El Niño phase, intensifying the effects of human-caused warming.
The widespread warmth in 2023 exacerbated extreme weather events globally, from heatwaves and wildfires in Canada and the US to droughts and floods in East Africa. The impact extended beyond air temperatures, with Antarctic sea-ice reaching a remarkable low, glaciers melting intensely, and marine heatwaves affecting the world’s oceans.
As we look ahead to 2024, there are concerns that it could surpass the alarming 1.5°C warming threshold set in the Paris Agreement. This further underscores the urgency to address the main cause of rising temperatures – fossil fuels.
The recently concluded COP28 climate summit emphasized the need to tackle this issue, though the agreement lacks binding commitments from nations.
Despite challenges in meeting the 1.5°C target, experts emphasize the importance of ongoing efforts in areas like renewable energy and electric vehicles.
Every fraction of a degree matters in mitigating the consequences of climate change, highlighting the significance of collective action.
This information is derived from a detailed report by the BBC, acknowledging their role as the primary source.
https://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-67861954