July 2023: Earth’s Hottest Month Yet—Turkey Breaks Record, Say EU Scientists

Extreme Heat Persists Amid Climate Change Warnings

Last month marked Earth’s third warmest July on record, with a shocking national temperature of 50.5°C (122.9°F) reported in Turkey. This rising heat reflects ongoing concerns linked to human-induced climate change, despite a brief easing in record highs.

According to the EU’s Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S), the average global surface temperature in July reached 16.68°C, which is 0.45°C above the historical norm from 1991 to 2020. Carlo Buontempo, director of C3S, noted, “Two years after the hottest July on record, the recent streak of global temperature records is over – for now.” However, he emphasized that climate change is still very much present, leading to events like extreme heat and severe flooding.

This July was not as hot as the record-setting July of 2023, yet it remained 1.25°C above the pre-industrial levels from 1850 to 1900. Over the past year, the period from August 2024 to July 2025 was 1.53°C warmer than those earlier benchmarks, exceeding the 1.5°C limit outlined in the Paris Agreement.

The primary driver of climate change is greenhouse gas emissions, mainly from burning fossil fuels. Interestingly, while last year was recorded as the hottest ever, the world hasn’t officially crossed the critical 1.5°C threshold. Some scientists worry it may no longer be feasible to keep global temperatures below this target. They urge governments worldwide to ramp up efforts to reduce carbon emissions to minimize the impact and frequency of extreme weather.

Historical data from C3S extends back to 1940, with global records dating to 1850. The patterns they reveal show a concerning trend: as the planet warms, so do the intensity and frequency of extreme weather events.

People around the world are feeling the heat. Social media is buzzing with reactions from those experiencing these conditions firsthand. From individuals sharing their struggles in cities like Baghdad, where residents seek relief from oppressive heat, to discussions around climate policy, it’s clear that the issue is hitting home.

Experts continue to call for urgency in addressing climate change. The impacts are visible now, and proactive steps are crucial for securing a better future. As we watch these trends unfold, it becomes increasingly evident that climate action must be a global priority.

For more insights on climate change and its implications, consider exploring reports from institutions like the [World Meteorological Organization](https://public.wmo.int/en) for further research and updates.