WMO’s State of Climate 2024 Report

The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) recently released the State of Climate 2024 report. It revealed that carbon dioxide (CO2) levels reached 420 parts per million in 2023. This is the highest concentration in the last 800,000 years. Alongside CO2, other greenhouse gases, such as methane (CH4) and nitrous oxide (N2O), also hit record levels. These increases have led to unprecedented temperature rises.

Temperature Record

The year 2024 marked climate milestone. The global mean near-surface temperature was 1.55°C above pre-industrial averages. This is the first time annual temperatures have exceeded the 1.5°C threshold set by the Paris Agreement. Although a single year above this threshold does not negate long-term goals, it signals heightened risks to ecosystems and human societies.

Long-Term Climate Trends

The WMO reported that long-term warming estimates range between 1.34°C and 1.41°C compared to pre-industrial averages from 1850 to 1900. Research indicates that the world is approaching critical climate thresholds, with predictions that the 1.5°C limit could be breached by September 2029 if current trends persist.

Ocean Heat and Sea Level Rise

The report brought into light that the last eight years have recorded the highest ocean heat content. Approximately 90% of the excess heat trapped by greenhouse gases is absorbed by oceans. Sea levels have also been rising at an accelerated rate, doubling since satellite measurements began. The melting of polar ice caps and glaciers is contributing to this rise.

Extreme Weather Events

The increase in greenhouse gas levels has intensified extreme weather phenomena. Events such as tropical cyclones, heavy rainfall, floods, and droughts have become more frequent and severe. In 2024, the number of climate-related displacements reached its highest since 2008, showcasing the human impact of climate change.

Impact on the Cryosphere

The cryosphere is experiencing alarming changes. Glaciers are retreating rapidly, and Antarctic sea ice has reached its second-lowest extent ever recorded. The WMO noted that seven of the last ten years exhibited the highest negative mass balance of glaciers, indicating ice loss.

Month: Current Affairs - March, 2025

Category: Environment Current Affairs