In March of 2024, Earth experienced its 10th consecutive month of setting a new global heat record, according to data from the European Union climate agency Copernicus. The average global temperature for the month was 14.14 degrees Celsius, surpassing the previous record from 2016 and exceeding temperatures from the late 1800s by 1.68 degrees Celsius. This trend of record-breaking heat has been ongoing since June, with marine heat waves in the world’s oceans playing a significant role in contributing to the high temperatures.
Climate scientists attribute much of the record heat to human-caused climate change, specifically from carbon dioxide and methane emissions produced by the burning of fossil fuels. The strong El Nino climate condition has also played a role in the high temperatures by warming the central Pacific and affecting global weather patterns. However, scientists note that the combination of El Nino and non-natural marine heat waves has made the recent heat records particularly alarming.
Despite the recent record-breaking temperatures, experts believe that the margins by which global average temperatures are surpassed each month will decrease as El Nino wanes. However, until greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere stop rising, the trend of increasing temperatures is likely to continue. Climate scientists emphasize the importance of taking immediate action to reduce carbon emissions, stop deforestation, and promote sustainable practices in food production in order to mitigate the impacts of climate change.
The 2015 Paris Agreement set a goal to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius since pre-industrial times. Copernicus’ temperature data shows that the globe has experienced 12 months with average temperatures exceeding this threshold by 1.58 degrees Celsius. While March’s record-breaking temperature was not as exceptional as some previous months, such as February 2024 and September 2023, the overall trajectory of increasing temperatures is concerning, highlighting the need for urgent global action to achieve net zero emissions as soon as possible.
In March 2024, global sea surface temperatures also hit a record high, averaging 21.07 degrees Celsius. This increase in ocean temperatures has implications for marine ecosystems and can lead to more frequent and severe marine heat waves. Copernicus’ deputy director emphasized the need for ambitious global action to address climate change and work towards achieving net zero emissions to prevent further temperature increases and their associated impacts on the planet.
The continued trend of record-breaking heat across the globe underscores the urgency of addressing climate change and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Scientists warn that without significant and immediate action to curb carbon emissions and promote sustainable practices, the world will continue to experience rising temperatures, more frequent extreme weather events, and other detrimental impacts of climate change. It is crucial for governments, businesses, and individuals to work together to achieve the goals set out in international agreements like the Paris Agreement and take proactive measures to protect our planet for future generations.
