Global Temperature
Articles tagged with Global Temperature
Snow cover on Greek mountains has more than halved in four decades, study finds
Snow cover on Greek mountains has declined by 58% over the past four decades due to rising temperatures. The research found that warmer air causes more precipitation to fall as rain instead of snow at high altitudes.
New study suggests climate finance from developed countries may help reduce resource-related conflict risk in developing countries
A new empirical study found a direct link between climate finance and lower conflict risk in developing countries. Climate finance that alleviates water stress and boosts renewable energy projects contributes to peace and stability, with greater impact at higher levels of funding.
Viciazites: Efficient carbon capture designer materials that could desorb below 60 oC
Researchers have developed a new class of carbon materials called 'viciazites' that contain carefully controlled configurations of nitrogen groups, enabling low-temperature operation and efficient CO2 capture. The materials outperform untreated carbon fibers in CO2 uptake and desorption at temperatures below 60°C.
Extreme global climate outcomes are possible even at 2°C of warming
A new study by UFZ researchers warns that extreme global climate outcomes are possible even at moderate levels of global warming, such as 2°C. Sector-specific drivers like precipitation extremes and droughts can lead to severe impacts in vulnerable regions. The study highlights the need for ambitious climate mitigation measures to limi...
Subway systems are uncomfortably hot — and worsening
Subway systems are consistently reporting thermal discomfort due to the rising heat, with complaints increasing by 10-27% for every 1 degree Celsius above 10 degrees Celsius in Boston, New York, and London respectively. The study aims to help transit agencies anticipate extreme heat and implement targeted mitigation strategies.
Why the planet doesn’t dry out together: scientists solve a global climate puzzle
Researchers have shown that ocean temperature patterns limit the global spread of droughts, with synchronised droughts affecting only 1.8% to 6.5% of global land. The study identified 'drought hubs' in regions like Australia, South America, and southern Africa.
Rising simultaneous wildfire risk compromises international firefighting efforts
Scientists warn that synchronised extreme fire weather, characterized by warm and dry conditions, has increased worldwide since 1979, straining international firefighting cooperation. The number of high-risk days with simultaneous fires is more than doubling, making wildfires harder to tackle and increasing air quality issues.
Why melting glaciers are drawing more visitors and what that says about climate change
As glaciers shrink, they're drawing visitors for their beauty and symbolic meaning in a warming world. The study highlights both emotional responses and tensions between conservation, livelihoods, and environmental responsibility.
Safeguarding the Winter Olympics-Paralympics against climate change
Researchers recommend shifting Olympic and Paralympic Games to earlier dates to protect fairness and safety for athletes. Snowmaking is also seen as a crucial adaptation strategy to ensure the viability of snow sports.
The Alps to lose a record number of glaciers in the next decade
The Alps are expected to reach a peak loss rate of 2,000-4,000 glaciers per year by 2033-2041, with only 110 glaciers remaining in Central Europe by 2100. Regions like the Rocky Mountains and Andes will also experience significant glacier losses.
Heat and drought change what forests breathe out
Researchers found that warming temperatures may actually reduce nitrogen gas emissions from forest soils in dry conditions, contradicting earlier predictions. The study's findings suggest that moisture levels, not just heat, play a crucial role in determining the fate of nitrogen in forests.
Fossil fuels speed up shifts in Europe’s winter rainfall
A new study reveals that the burning of fossil fuels is accelerating winter rainfall changes in Northern and central Europe, including the UK, by more than two decades. This finding significantly upsets climate model projections, highlighting the urgent need for adaptation planning and infrastructure investment.
The riddle of rising extreme heat days in Europe: Remote “triggers” and local “amplifiers”
A new study reveals a significant interdecadal shift in European summer hot days around 1998, driven by remote climate signals and exacerbated by regional land–atmosphere processes. Soil moisture decreased over Europe, intensifying the land–air coupling strength, leading to enhanced hot days.
Scientists quantitatively identify main causes of Russian once-in-a-century heatwave
A new study reveals that surface dynamics and aerosol processes were the key drivers behind the extraordinary 2010 heatwave in western Russia. The researchers used a model-free approach to quantify the contributions of individual radiative and dynamical processes, finding surface dynamics to be the primary contributor.
Southern ocean’s heat storage – a possible cause of future ‘heat burps’
A modelling study suggests that heat stored in the Southern Ocean could be released, causing a rapid warming of the atmosphere. The ocean acts as a large heat reservoir, mitigating atmospheric warming since the Industrial Revolution.
Calcite deposit from southern Nevada cave reveals 580,000 years of climate history
A calcite deposit in a southern Nevada cave has provided new insight into the region's hydroclimate, revealing significant shifts in temperature and rainfall over the last 580,000 years. The analysis suggests that temperature, availability of water, and vegetation are tightly coupled, with changes in one area impacting others.
The chilling effect of air pollution
A new study shows that reducing air pollution has decreased the brightness of marine clouds, leading to accelerated warming. Scientists attribute 70% of this change to aerosols, and researchers are exploring ways to make clouds shinier without polluting the air.
Six-million-year-old ice discovered in Antarctica offers unprecedented window into a warmer Earth
Researchers have discovered the oldest directly dated ice and air on the planet, providing an unprecedented view of Earth's past climate. The 6-million-year-old ice cores reveal a gradual cooling trend of about 12 degrees Celsius over the last 6 million years.
New study finds large fluctuations in sea level occurred throughout the last ice age, a significant shift in understanding of past climate
A new study published in Science reveals that large fluctuations in global sea level occurred throughout the last ice age, rather than just at its end. This finding represents a significant shift in researchers' understanding of past climate history and challenges conventional wisdom on the middle Pleistocene transition.
MPs and public overestimate time left for climate action, study finds
A study found that UK MPs and the public overestimated the time needed for global greenhouse emissions to peak. Labour MPs were more likely to know the correct answer than Conservative MPs. The researchers suggest that institutions like the IPCC need to improve communication about climate change to policymakers and the public.
Climate change is supercharging Europe’s biggest hail
New research suggests that severe hail storms in Europe will become less frequent but bigger and more devastating, especially in Southern Europe. Climate experts attribute this to warmer temperatures causing hail to form higher in the atmosphere, where storm updrafts are weaker.
Carbon cycle flaw can plunge Earth into an ice age
Researchers at UC Riverside discovered a carbon burial process in the ocean that can cause Earth's temperature to overshoot and cool down, potentially triggering an ice age. The study suggests that the planet's thermostat is not functioning as expected due to changes in atmospheric oxygen levels.
High Mountain Asia’s shrinking glaciers linked to monsoon changes
Research from the University of Utah and Virginia Tech reveals that seasonal shifts in rainfall and snowfall patterns are exacerbating glacier melting across the region. Glaciers in Central Himalaya, Western Himalaya, and Eastern Himalaya are especially vulnerable to accelerated ice loss and water availability threats.
International “State of the Climate” report confirms record-high greenhouse gases, global temperatures, global sea level, and ocean heat in 2024
The State of the Climate report reveals record-high greenhouse gas concentrations, with CO2 levels reaching 422.8 parts per million, a 52% increase from pre-industrial levels. Global temperatures also reached a new high, with annual growth increasing to 2.4 ppm yr−1.
Experts urge shift in heatwave strategy to save lives
Heat-related deaths are projected to rise four-fold by 2050 if global temperatures reach 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. Experts recommend a physiology-based approach that focuses on hot people, using tools like HeatWatch, to enhance heat adaptation and minimize carbon intensity.
USC teams up with ShadeLA coalition to cool Los Angeles ahead of 2028
ShadeLA aims to reduce heat risk by expanding tree canopy and shade infrastructure in key public spaces, targeting major sporting events and heat waves. The initiative builds on USC's Urban Trees Initiative and engages community-based organizations to create locally driven solutions for a more comfortable L.A.
Heatwaves to increase in frequency, duration under global warming
Climate models project an accelerating increase in heatwave duration due to global warming, with each additional increment of warming causing larger increases in long heat waves. As temperatures rise, the typical length of heatwaves will also increase, posing significant impacts on humans, livestock, and ecosystems.
Decline in aerosols could lead to more heatwaves in populated areas
A study found that declining aerosols are up to 2.5 times more influential than greenhouse gases in driving changes in heatwave occurrence in populated areas. Higher levels of aerosols suppressed heatwave exposure by reflecting the sun's rays, but this trend is now reversing due to clean air policies.
Cleaner East Asian air unmasks a much hotter planet
A new study finds that cleaner air in East Asia, particularly China, has contributed to the recent acceleration in global warming. The region's aerosol reductions account for most of the observed warming since 2010, even after accounting for natural fluctuation events.
Prolonged humid-heat seasons in eastern China threaten public health, especially for the elderly and children
Compound heat-humidity extremes in eastern China are lasting longer than ever before, significantly increasing health risks for the elderly and young children. The study found that the active season has expanded, especially in South China, leading to a major public health crisis as China's population ages.
Melting glaciers could trigger more explosive eruptions globally, finds research
Researchers found that thick ice cover suppressed volcanic eruptions, but as glacial ice melts, pressure builds and magma is released, leading to more frequent and explosive eruptions. This phenomenon could occur worldwide, including Antarctica, and may have global climate impacts, including long-term warming.
Under the Pacific Ocean, ancient sediment reveals Earth’s history
Researchers uncover valuable insights into past climate scenarios and marine ecosystems through ancient sediment cores. The study highlights the need for more data to improve future climate models and transform our understanding of Earth's complex life systems.
Multiple extreme climate events at the same time may be the new normal
Researchers at Uppsala University predict that concurrent extreme events will become more frequent due to climate change, posing new challenges for preparedness. The study examines six types of events and finds a sharp increase in combinations of heatwaves and forest fires, as well as heatwaves and droughts, in various regions worldwide.
Study projects that increasing wildfires in Canada and Siberia will actually slow global warming
A new University of Washington study projects that increasing boreal fires in Canada and Siberia will slow global warming by 12% globally and 38% in the Arctic. The fires reduce sea ice loss and cooler winter temperatures, despite their own warming effects.
Still on the right track? Researchers at the University of Graz enable reliable monitoring of the Paris climate goals
Researchers at the University of Graz have developed a new benchmark timeseries that tracks global surface air temperature change from 1850 to 2034. This enables reliable monitoring of the Paris climate goals, which are set to be exceeded by 2028. The study proposes a four-classes assessment scale to gauge compliance with the agreement.
Atlantic ocean current unlikely to collapse with climate change
A new study from Caltech finds that the Atlantic meridional overturning circulation, commonly referred to as the AMOC, will weaken by around 18 to 43 percent at the end of the 21st century. This represents a limited decline, rather than substantial weakening as previously predicted, addressing a long-standing uncertainty in climate sci...
AMS science preview: Heat stress and height, eclipse effects
Researchers have discovered that urban areas experience a greater difference in wet bulb globe temperature between 0.5 m and 1.5 m above ground due to surface heat radiation, posing health risks to children and pets during extreme heat events. Total solar eclipses also alter atmospheric conditions and insect behavior, with some species...
AGU and AMS join forces on special collection to maintain momentum of research supporting the US National Climate Assessment
The American Geophysical Union (AGU) and the American Meteorological Society (AMS) are collaborating on a special collection to maintain momentum in climate change research supporting the US National Climate Assessment. This effort aims to sustain the work of authors who were dismissed earlier this week by the Trump Administration.
Geoengineering technique could cool planet using existing aircraft
A new study suggests that adding particles to the atmosphere at a lower altitude near the polar regions can effectively cool the planet. Commercial jets like Boeing 777F could reach this altitude.
Prepare today to save lives tomorrow: SFU study finds gaps in B.C. extreme heat response plans
A new study by Simon Fraser University found gaps in BC's extreme heat response plans, with urban greening being the most common mitigation strategy. The research highlights the need for co-operation and co-ordination across jurisdictions to improve neighbourhoods and address socio-economic disparities.
Southern Ocean warming will mean a wetter West Coast
A Cornell University-led study predicts long-term increases in precipitation over East Asia and the Western U.S. as the Southern Ocean warms, regardless of climate mitigation efforts. The research suggests that accounting for cloud feedbacks in climate models can help explain uncertainties and improve predictions.
Refining Siberia’s land cover data: A leap forward for climate science
A recent study refines Siberia's land cover data using machine learning techniques, revealing a high-precision map that enhances climatic predictions. The new dataset improves assessments of carbon flux and ecosystem changes, providing essential insights for climate scientists.
Amplified global heating risk due to climate and carbon cycle feedbacks
A new study finds that global heating could exceed previous estimates, with even low emission scenarios leading to higher temperatures. The Paris Agreement's goal of limiting warming to 2°C may only be achievable under very low emissions and lower-than-estimated climate sensitivity.
NYU Abu Dhabi research highlights adaptability of some coral reef fish to rising temperatures
Researchers found that some coral reef fish exhibit higher thermal tolerance in the Arabian Gulf's variable thermal environment, but overall biodiversity is lower. This suggests that only certain species can adapt to environmental changes, and highlights the need for further investigation into climate change impacts.
Study explores how climate change impacts extreme cold events
A new study led by Qian Cheng found that unusual atmospheric circulation accounted for 83% of a record-breaking cold event in eastern China. The warming effect of climate change reduced the event's severity by up to 22%.
Why ‘leaky’ plants could accelerate climate change
Recent studies suggest that rising temperatures could disrupt the balance of Earth's climate by increasing plant water loss. In extreme heat, plants may lose too much water to conserve it, limiting photosynthesis and reducing their role as a carbon sink.
An Arctic 'beyond recognition' by 2100
A new review paper warns of the devastating impacts of a 2.7°C global warming on the Arctic region, including sea-ice-free summers, accelerated melting of glaciers, and widespread permafrost loss. The authors urge individuals to take responsibility for mitigating these changes.
Half a degree rise in global warming will triple area of Earth too hot for humans
A 0.5°C rise in global warming will triple the area of Earth that is too hot for humans to survive, with the over 60s facing a 35% increase in heat-related risks. This could lead to millions of deaths, especially in regions like Saharan Africa and South Asia.
Shipping emissions mandate led to spike in global temperatures
A recent study by Cornell University researchers suggests that the 2020 regulatory changes in international shipping emissions led to a significant increase in global temperatures. The study found that removing sulfur dioxide from shipping fuel increased the planet's temperature by 0.08 degrees Celsius.
Lake ice becoming increasingly unsafe at start and end of winter, raising risk of drowning
Research by York University indicates that lake ice conditions are changing, with warmer temperatures increasing the formation of white ice, which is more prone to collapse. This poses a significant risk of accidents and drownings, particularly at the start and end of the winter season.
AI predicts Earth’s peak warming
Researchers trained an AI system to predict future warming based on climate model simulations and historical temperature data. The study suggests that even in the best-case scenario, global warming will likely exceed 2 degrees Celsius, with severe impacts expected in regions such as South Asia and Central Europe.
Rapid surge in global warming mainly due to reduced planetary albedo
Researchers link global warming spike in 2023 to reduced low-level cloud cover, which limits Earth's ability to reflect solar radiation. This decline in planetary albedo could explain the 'missing' 0.2 degrees Celsius of warming.
Young coral use metabolic tricks to resist bleaching
Coral larvae reduce metabolism and increase nitrogen uptake to resist bleaching in high temperatures. This adaptation allows the coral to conserve energy and resources, while also limiting algal overgrowth and maintaining symbiotic relationships.
Rising heat exposure threatens maternal and newborn health
A recent study found that every 1°C increase in heat exposure increases preterm birth by 4%, while a heatwave can lead to a 26% increased risk. The review also highlights marked increases in gestational diabetes, stillbirths, and congenital anomalies.
EU taxonomy must go further to meet Paris Climate Goals – new research shows how
The EU's sustainable finance framework urgently needs to expand to address climate goals. The current taxonomy will not meet the Paris Climate Agreement target of limiting global temperature rise to 1.5°C.
Could crowdsourcing hold the key to early wildfire detection?
A new crowdsourcing system, FireLoc, uses a network of low-cost mobile phones to detect wildfires minutes—even seconds—after they ignite. The system prioritizes privacy and accurately maps wilderness fires to within 180 feet of their origin.
How climate change will impact outdoor activities in the US
A new study by MIT researchers shows that climate change will significantly impact outdoor activities in the US, with Florida and other Southeastern states experiencing major drops in
Ethical framework aims to counter risks of geoengineering research
A new framework for responsible decision-making and inclusive dialogue has been launched by the American Geophysical Union to address the risks of geoengineering research. The framework proposes five key principles to guide research, funding and policy proposals, including consideration of physical, environmental and social consequences.
El Niño–southern oscillation caused the spike in 2023 temperatures, new study found
A recent study by University of Miami researchers identifies El Niño-Southern Oscillation as the primary cause of the rapid warming of the planet in 2023. The analysis shows that nearly all temperature spikes were associated with an El Niño event, highlighting the significant impact of this climate phenomenon on global temperatures.