Global temperatures are climbing at an alarming rate. The year 2024 was confirmed as the hottest year since records began, with average global temperatures crossing 1.5 °C above pre-industrial levels for the first time. Scientists now warn that this threshold may be exceeded permanently by the late 2020s if emissions are not cut sharply. Researchers also caution that the world is on track to breach the 2 °C limit by 2045, a level once thought avoidable.
The main driver is human activity burning coal, oil, and gas releases greenhouse gases that trap heat in the atmosphere. Deforestation, agriculture, and industrial growth add to the problem. Natural factors such as El Niño and reduced air pollution have amplified the warming trend. Together, they are creating conditions for record-breaking heatwaves, rising seas, and more intense storms.
The effects of warming are visible everywhere. Heatwaves are becoming longer and deadlier, especially across Asia. Heavy rains are triggering floods, while higher sea surface temperatures are fueling stronger cyclones. Glaciers continue to melt, adding to rising seas and threatening water security for millions. Coral reefs, which protect coastlines and support marine life, are facing their worst bleaching event on record. Scientists also warn of a potential collapse of the Atlantic Ocean current system (AMOC), which could disrupt global weather and rainfall patterns.
Also Read: Space Launch Boom Driving Pollution Up, Scientists Warn
Climate change is already affecting daily life. Studies show that in India, the number of dangerously hot days could increase five- to eight-fold by the end of the century, raising health risks from heatstroke and disease. Farmers face crop losses from droughts and floods, while coastal communities are fighting back against sea-level rise. Biodiversity is shrinking as species lose their natural habitats, forcing them to migrate or vanish.
Scientists agree that while cutting emissions is essential, adaptation must happen now. This means building flood-resilient infrastructure, redesigning cities with cooler spaces, and preparing health systems for extreme heat. Agriculture needs a shift toward drought-resistant crops and smarter water use. Protecting forests, wetlands, and mangroves will also help nature act as a buffer against climate shocks.
Many countries are developing climate adaptation plans, but experts warn progress is far too slow. The UN estimates that adaptation could cost up to $411 billion annually by 2030, yet current funding falls short. Some governments, like Australia, are moving toward dedicated climate resilience laws, while international bodies such as the IPCC are working on updated frameworks for adaptation strategies. However, without stronger political will and global cooperation, communities will continue to face mounting risks.
The climate crisis has shifted from a distant threat to a present reality. Rising global temperatures are driving extreme weather, endangering health, food, and ecosystems. Science is clear: mitigation must go hand in hand with large-scale adaptation. The longer the world delays action, the higher the costs and the harsher the impacts will be.
Also Read: Jaishankar Meets Chinese Vice President, Backs China’s SCO Presidency Amid Warming India-China Ties
