Climate Change: September Third-Hottest on Record, EU Monitor Says

Third-Warmest September on Record Confirms Persistent Global Heating Trend.Last month was the planet’s third-warmest September ever recorded. The data comes from the European Union’s Copernicus Climate Change Service. This continues a long-term trend of rising global temperatures.The findings highlight the relentless pace of climate change. Despite a shift toward La Niña conditions, which typically have a cooling effect, temperatures remained exceptionally high. This underscores the dominant role of greenhouse gas emissions.

Global Temperature Analysis and Regional Impacts

The average surface air temperature in September was 16.11 degrees Celsius. This is 0.66 degrees above the 1991-2020 average. According to Copernicus, it was also 1.47 degrees warmer than pre-industrial levels.These high temperatures had direct consequences worldwide. Many regions experienced much wetter conditions. This led to significant flooding in places like the southwestern US, Pakistan, and northwestern India.

Ocean Heat and The La Niña Factor

Global sea surface temperatures also ranked third-highest for September. They were only slightly below the record set in 2023. This ocean heat contributes to more intense weather patterns.The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration forecasts La Niña will develop. This climate pattern usually brings distinct weather impacts. However, its cooling influence is now moderated by human-induced climate change.

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The data is a stark reminder of the new climate reality. The third-warmest September shows that background warming continues unabated. Global temperatures are now consistently challenging historical records.

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What does this mean for global climate goals?

This temperature record moves the world closer to breaching the 1.5°C Paris Agreement limit. The 12-month average is already at 1.51°C above pre-industrial levels. Sustained action is needed to curb this trend.

How did India fare in this report?

India experienced its 9th warmest September in terms of mean temperature. It was the 5th warmest for night temperatures. The east and northeast regions saw their third-warmest September on record.

What is the connection to La Niña?

La Niña is a cooling of Pacific Ocean waters. It usually temporarily lowers global average temperatures. Its limited effect now shows the overpowering influence of greenhouse gases.

Were there impacts on Arctic sea ice?

Yes. Arctic sea ice extent reached its 14th-lowest annual minimum. The monthly extent was 12% below the historical average. This continues a long-term decline in polar ice.

Why was there so much flooding?

Warmer air holds more moisture, leading to heavier rainfall. Many wetter-than-average regions, from Europe to Asia, experienced severe floods. Some events were linked to tropical cyclones.