Preliminary data from the ERA5 dataset reveals that July 21, 2024, was the hottest day ever recorded on Earth, with an average global surface air temperature reaching 17.09°C. This record-breaking heatwave highlights the accelerating impact of climate change on global temperatures.
Maintained by the Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S), the ERA5 dataset tracks climate and weather data from 1940 onwards. This new temperature record surpasses previous highs, underscoring the continuing trend of rising global temperatures.
July 2024 has seen extreme heatwaves affecting various regions worldwide, including southern Europe, Southeast Asia, northern Africa, and the United States. These heatwaves have led to severe weather events such as wildfires in Greece, Canada, and Algeria.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres has warned that “humanity is in the hot seat,” calling this period the “era of global boiling” and stressing the urgent need for climate action. The record temperatures are attributed to both natural climate variability and human-induced greenhouse gas emissions, which are accelerating climate change.
Additionally, global sea surface temperatures have reached unprecedented levels, and even Antarctica is experiencing higher-than-average temperatures during its winter season. The extreme heat and warming trends highlight the critical need for robust climate action and adaptation strategies.