**The devastating impact of human-induced climate change in 2024**
The year 2024 will be remembered as a year marked by rising global temperatures and extreme weather events, posing a growing threat to the planet. According to an analysis by researchers at World Weather Attribution and Climate Central, data reveals that people around the world have had to endure an average of 41 additional days of dangerous heat this year, due to human-induced climate change.
Weather records have confirmed that 2024 could rank as the hottest year on record, marked by a series of record-breaking heatwaves and deadly weather events. Global warming has led to a significant increase in the number of days of extreme heat, exceeding 150 days in some regions. These alarming figures underscore the urgent need to act to limit global warming and prevent the catastrophic consequences of climate change.
Scientists looked closely at 29 extreme weather events that occurred in 2024, leading to the loss of life and displacement of millions. Of these 29 events, 26 were clearly linked to climate change, highlighting the devastating impact of our actions on the environment. Record temperatures and heavy rainfall were particularly concerning, causing devastating storms and deadly flooding.
While El Niño may have influenced some weather events during the year, researchers highlighted that climate change played a major role in making the situation worse. Warmer ocean waters and rising atmospheric temperatures fuelled destructive storms and heavy downpours, increasing risks to vulnerable populations.
This pivotal year highlighted the urgent need for action to limit greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate the effects of climate change. As the Earth moves dangerously close to the Paris Agreement’s warming limit of 1.5 degrees Celsius, it is imperative that governments and citizens around the world take concrete action to protect our planet and ensure a sustainable future for generations to come.