The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has issued a red alert, signaling a severe escalation in the global climate crisis. According to their latest report, 2023 shattered records across every major climate indicator.
Greenhouse gas levels reached unprecedented highs, while surface temperatures soared, making 2023 the warmest year on record with an average global temperature of 1.45°C above pre-industrial levels. Ocean heat and acidification, rising sea levels, Antarctic sea ice decline, and glacial retreat all set new benchmarks, underscoring the rapid pace of environmental change.
\"This annual report shows that the climate crisis is the defining challenge that humanity faces,\" stated WMO Secretary-General Celeste Saulo during a press conference in Geneva. She emphasized the interconnectedness of the climate crisis with global inequality, citing growing food insecurity, population displacement, and biodiversity loss as direct consequences.
The past year witnessed devastating natural disasters, including heatwaves, floods, droughts, wildfires, and intensifying tropical cyclones. These events have caused immense suffering, displaced millions of people, and inflicted billions of dollars in economic losses worldwide.
As the world grapples with these challenges, the WMO's red alert serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for comprehensive and collective action to mitigate climate change and its far-reaching impacts.
Reference(s):
WMO issues red alert over record-breaking climate change indicators
cgtn.com
