On July 22, 2024, Earth experienced its hottest day on record, with global average temperatures reaching unprecedented levels. According to the EU’s Copernicus Climate Change Service, this date surpassed the previous day’s record, marking a significant milestone in climate data.
By John Adams
Record-Breaking Temperatures
The global average temperature on July 22, 2024, hit 63.07 °F, breaking the previous day’s record of 62.76 °F. This was a significant increase from the former record of 62.74 °F set on July 6, 2023. Over the past year, there have been 57 days when the temperature exceeded the previous record of 62.24 °F set in 2016. These occurrences highlight a worrying trend of rising global temperatures.
Factors Contributing to the Heat
The dramatic increase in global daily average temperature is linked to significantly above-average temperatures across much of Antarctica. Additionally, the Antarctic sea ice extent is nearly as low as it was at this time last year. This combination of factors has led to the unprecedented temperatures recorded. Copernicus Director Carlo Buontempo noted that as the climate continues to warm, new records are expected in the coming months and years.
Seasonal Patterns and Global Impact
The global average temperature typically peaks between late June and early August, coinciding with summer in the Northern Hemisphere. This pattern is due to the Northern Hemisphere’s large landmasses warming more rapidly than the Southern Hemisphere’s oceans can cool. Consequently, the global temperature trends are heavily influenced by the Northern Hemisphere’s seasonal changes.
Monitoring and Future Projections
The Copernicus Climate Change Service regularly publishes data on surface temperatures, sea ice extent, and precipitation. These insights are derived from complex computer-generated analyses incorporating billions of measurements from satellites, ships, aircraft, and weather stations worldwide. The data used in these analyses date back to 1950, with some earlier records also included. With ongoing monitoring and analysis, scientists anticipate more record-breaking temperatures as climate change progresses.
The alarming rise in global temperatures underscores the urgent need for effective climate action. The unprecedented heat recorded on July 22, 2024, serves as a stark reminder of the accelerating impact of climate change on our planet.
Based on content from www.spektrum.de