2025 on track to become second-hottest year ever recorded

Data shows that global temperatures from January to November were 1.48°C above pre-industrial levels, bringing the world dangerously close to breaching the 1.5°C limit outlined in the Paris Agreement. Experts at Copernicus warn that the three-year average for 2023–2025 is projected to surpass 1.5°C for the first time in history.

Extreme weather intensifies as climate warms

Last month was the third-warmest November on record, with global temperatures reaching 1.54°C above pre-industrial levels. Scientists emphasise that even small rises in temperature are increasing climate instability, making storms, floods, and other natural disasters more severe. November saw devastating tropical cyclones in Southeast Asia, causing catastrophic flooding and significant loss of life. The northern hemisphere’s autumn was also the third warmest on record.

Fossil fuel debate stalls global climate action

Although countries agreed in 2023 at COP28 to reduce reliance on fossil fuels, progress has stalled. COP30 in Belem, Brazil, concluded without a renewed pledge to phase out oil, gas, and coal after objections from major fossil fuel producers. Climate experts warn that greenhouse gas emissions from ongoing fossil fuel use remain the primary cause of global temperature rise.