The World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) made concerning predictions about Global Warming in a recent report.
UN Photo/Evan Schneider | Cracked Earth in Nature Reserve of Popenguine in Senegal
According to the WMO, global temperatures are set to reach record levels in the next five years. The reason: heat-trapping greenhouse gases, and El Niño, a naturally occurring meteorological event.
So what does all this mean for us?
The WMO reported a 66% chance that the annual average near-surface global temperature will surpass 1.5°C. Between 2023 and 2027, the temperature is expected to exceed the 1.5°C limit for at least one year.
Additionally, there is a 98% chance that at least one in the next five years will be the warmest on record, surpassing the temperature record set in 2016.
Regarding rainfall patterns, the predicted rainfall patterns for May to September 2023-2027 suggest increased rainfall in the Sahel, northern Europe, northern Siberia, and Alaska. The WMO's report also predicts reduced rainfall this season over the Amazon and parts of Australia.
UN | Sustainable Development Goal - 13 Infographic (1)
Will this change be permanent?
In short, no. The report does not suggest a permanent breach of the 1.5°C limit set in the Paris Agreement.But, it does state that temporary breaches of the limit will become more frequent.
El Niño is a weather phenomenon characterized by the warming of the tropical Pacific Ocean. This phenomenon influences global weather patterns.
A warming El Niño is going to develop in the coming months. Together with human-induced climate change, it is going to push global temperatures into uncharted territory. It will have far-reaching consequences for health, food security, water management, and the environment. Professor Petteri Taalas, WMO Secretary-General, emphasizes the need for preparedness.
According to experts from the United Kingdom's Met Office, we are going to see concerning deviations from the climate we are accustomed to. In fact, we have been seeing extreme weather fluctuations for the past few years, case in point, India’s recent cold wave.
UN | Sustainable Development Goal - 13 Infographic (2)
The urgency to address global warming and its consequences has never been more critical. The WMO report was published before the 19th World Meteorological Congress, providing a unique opportunity for collaboration, innovation, and the pursuit of climate change adaptation and mitigation strategies.
Let us seize this moment to acknowledge the risks we face and work collectively towards safeguarding our planet and securing a sustainable future for generations to come. The time for action is now.
On a personal level too, we can do our part to save our environment. Daily simple tasks such as:
- 3Rs - Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: This is one of the simplest ways you can reduce pollution, and conserve resources, hence the environment.
- Using sustainable materials for apparel stationery, and more, in our daily life.
- Walking or carpooling instead of using a personal vehicle when possible.
- Using energy-efficient appliances helps you save money and reduce your carbon footprint.
These are just a few ways we can contribute toward saving the environment.
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