Heatwaves surge worldwide as global temperatures reach new highs
Monday, July 10, 2023
Last week, the world experienced three of the hottest days on record, as indicated by preliminary data sources. On July 3, the average global temperature surged to 62.62 degrees Fahrenheit (17.2 degrees Celsius). This significant increase underscores the escalating impact of global warming and the intensifying nature of the heatwave.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the University of Maine collaborated to compile this data, measuring the average global air temperature two meters above the Earth's surface. Surpassing the previous record set in July 2022 and August 2016, when the global temperature reached at 62.46 degrees Fahrenheit (16.92 degrees Celsius). Experts attribute the surge in global temperatures to recent heatwaves in the United States, Canada, and Europe, alongside the influence of El Niño. El Niño, a climatic phenomenon characterized by elevated Pacific Ocean temperatures, has contributed to the overall rise in global temperatures. The NOAA and University of Maine's temperature data, which dates back to 1979, provides insights for historical comparisons. Researchers express confidence that this is the highest global temperature since instrumental measurements commenced in the 1850s.
The intense heatwave is not confined to specific regions. June 2023 was declared the warmest month on record by the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts. These blistering temperatures strained infrastructure and public health services. Over 120 million Americans were affected by heat advisories, while regions like Europe, China, and Spain also faced unprecedented heatwaves.
This prolonged heatwave is a direct consequence of climate change, as rising global temperatures from greenhouse gas emissions intensify the frequency and severity of such events. Experts caution that future heatwaves will likely surpass the current conditions in both intensity and duration.
Sources[edit]
- Benji Jones. "Yes, it’s hot. But this could be one of the coolest summers of the rest of your life." — Vox, July 6, 2023
- David Stanway. "World hits record land, sea temperatures as climate change fuels 2023 extremes" — Reuters, July 3, 2023
- Isabella O'malley. "Signs Earth's Climate May Have Entered Uncharted Territory" — Time, July 6, 2023
- Samantha Davies. "Earth's hottest day ever recorded was on July 3, 2023" — NBCDFW, July 5, 2023