2024 breaks 1.5°C warming threshold

Global temperatures exceeded 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels in 2024 for the first time, driven by record emissions and extreme weather patterns, highlighting the urgent need for decisive climate action.

Global temperatures in 2024 exceeded 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels for the first time, reaching 1.6°C, according to the EU’s Copernicus Climate Change Service. The milestone, driven by record emissions and El Niño, highlights the urgency of cutting greenhouse gases.

Extreme weather events, including wildfires and heatwaves, caused significant loss of life and billions in damages. Despite the Paris Agreement’s 1.5°C goal, scientists warn that rising emissions put the world on track for dangerous warming.

"It’s not too late to change course," said C3S director Carlo Buontempo, urging swift global action.

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