China recorded its hottest year on record in 2024 with an average national temperature of 10.92 degrees Celsius, significantly higher than historical averages. The year also featured severe weather patterns leading to floods, resulting in fatalities and substantial economic losses globally, totaling $310 billion according to insurance estimates. These developments underline the urgent challenges posed by climate change.
In 2024, China recorded its highest national average temperature since comprehensive records began in 1961, with figures reaching 10.92 degrees Celsius (51.66 degrees Fahrenheit). This temperature marked an increase of 1.03 degrees Celsius above the long-term average. The China Meteorological Administration, which released this information, pointed out that the last four years have seen the warmest temperatures recorded across the nation, reinforcing the trend of rising temperatures in the 21st century. Additionally, China experienced additional record-breaking conditions, including the hottest month, August, and a notably warm autumn.
This alarming trend of global warming, primarily driven by fossil fuel combustion, has resulted not only in rising temperatures but also in increasingly severe weather patterns, including heavy rain and destructive storms. The consequences of this warming phenomenon have been dire, as evidenced by numerous floods across China last year that claimed dozens of lives and forced thousands to evacuate. A significant incident occurred in May when persistent rainfall led to a highway collapse, resulting in the deaths of 48 individuals.
The year 2024 has further been marked by extreme weather events worldwide, including notable flooding in Spain and Kenya, numerous storms in the United States and the Philippines, as well as severe droughts and wildfires in South America. Combined, these natural disasters incurred global economic losses totaling $310 billion, as reported by Zurich-based insurance firm Swiss Re. These events illustrate the broader implications of climate change, affecting not only temperatures but also the water cycles and intensifying water-related disasters, thus impacting agriculture and infrastructure across multiple nations.
The content of this article serves to highlight the urgent issue of climate change, specifically focusing on the unprecedented rise in temperatures experienced in China during 2024. As the world’s largest emitter of greenhouse gases, China’s climatic shifts are critical indicators of a broader global trend characterized by extreme weather events exacerbated by climate change. Scientific evidence points towards global warming largely caused by human activities, particularly the burning of fossil fuels, which contributed to increased atmospheric heat and resultant disasters. Understanding these factors provides insight into the challenges faced globally in mitigating disaster impacts and adhering to international climate commitments.
In summary, 2024 emerged as a critical year in the context of climate change, with China recording its highest temperatures since comprehensive records began. This trend aligns with global warming patterns that have led to extreme weather events, resulting in substantial economic losses and loss of life. The information emphasizes the pressing need for concerted global efforts to address climate change and adhere to international agreements aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Original Source: www.france24.com
