Last year, Earth experienced its third hottest temperature on record. Climate researchers are observing a worrying trend: warming seems to be speeding up. According to data from multiple science teams, temperatures in 2023, 2024, and 2025 are very close, with only a tiny difference of 0.04°F between them.
The average global temperature last year was 59.14°F, which is 2.59°F warmer than it was before industrial times. Most of the data used in these studies goes back to 1850, and all three recent years are dangerously close to the international goal of limiting warming to 2.7°F above pre-industrial levels. Scientists have warned that we could cross this threshold by the end of the decade.
Recent statistics show that the last 11 years have been the hottest on record. Robert Rohde, a climate scientist, noted that the last three years highlight a sharp increase in temperatures that diverges from the trend observed over the previous 50 years. He attributes much of this warming to human-caused greenhouse gas emissions, although other factors like decreased soot from shipping and natural events like volcanic eruptions have also played a role.
Samantha Burgess, a strategic climate lead at Copernicus, stressed the urgent reality of climate change: “It’s happening, it’s real, and it’s impacting everyone.” Indeed, heat waves and extreme weather events are becoming more frequent and intense, impacting communities around the globe.
In fact, data from Berkeley Earth revealed that around 770 million people endured record annual heat last year—450 million of them in China alone. Other hot spots included Australia, northern Africa, and parts of Antarctica. The United States recorded its fourth warmest year on record, too. Social media often buzzes with reactions during extreme heat events, showcasing how humankind is facing the immediate impacts of climate change.
One of the natural factors influencing global temperatures is the El Niño/La Niña cycle, which affects weather patterns worldwide. Although recent years recorded two cool La Niñas, experts predict that an El Niño will soon arrive, potentially leading to another record year for global temperatures. Both Copernicus and Berkeley Earth predict that by 2029, we could exceed the 2.7°F threshold.
As we move forward, experts caution that the frequency of extreme weather will only rise, and the resulting costs will become more severe. Burgess warns, “We’ll look back at the mild climate of the mid-2020s with nostalgia.” Understanding these changes can inspire action and foster community resilience against climate impacts.
