Global temperatures continue to rise. According to the Copernicus Climate Change Service, June, July, and August 2023 recorded the earth’s hottest three months.
August 2023 was estimated to be around 1.5 degree Celsius warmer than the preindustrial average for 1850-1900. Antarctic sea ice extent remained at a record low level for this time of the year. August also witnessed 0.71 degree Celsius warmer global-mean air temperature than the 1991-2020 average.
“Our planet has just endured a season of simmering — the hottest summer on record and Climate breakdown has begun,” U.N. secretary-general António Guterres said in a statement.
Why is this important?
The United States experienced 23 weather related disasters this year that cost more than $1 billion in damages. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, this includes the Category 3 Hurricane Idalia in Florida, wildfires in Hawaii, two flooding events, hailstorms, and tornadoes. These disasters exceed $57.6 billion in costs and 253 fatalities.
