The impact of climate change is intensifying every year, afflicting communities, economies and ecosystems worldwide. The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) said 2024 is set to become the hottest year on record, capping off a decade filled with unprecedented heat directly tied to human-induced activities. Scientists and environmentalists alike warn that we find ourselves in a dire predicament — one where the impacts of climate change are not only visible but mostly unavoidable.
In the words of UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, “We have just endured a decade of deadly heat,” with the top 10 hottest years occurring within this short span, including the year we currently inhabit. The astounding rise in greenhouse gas levels culminates in historic highs, locking in a future fraught with more extreme temperatures and dire weather events. Guterres painted a grim picture: “This is climate breakdown — in real-time.” His declaration stressed not only the seriousness of the situation but also the urgency with which nations must act.
The forthcoming consolidated global temperature figures for 2024 — set to be released in January 2025 — will further confirm the harrowing effects of climate change. WMO has indicated that “every fraction of a degree of warming matters”, illustrating how even marginal increases can lead to heightened climate extremes and risks. We are witnessing global climate change manifesting daily — tragedies of extreme weather events that threaten the fabric of society.
The last year has been marked by significant climatic disruptions. Record-breaking rainfall and catastrophic flooding have led to loss of life and displacement across numerous continents. Tropical cyclones, a recurrent threat, have caused untold human suffering and economic tolls—most recently evident in the French overseas department of Mayotte in the Indian Ocean.
Meteorological data reveal that intense heatwaves have scorched numerous countries, with some regions experiencing temperatures surpassing 50 degrees Celsius on multiple occasions. Meanwhile, wildfires have wreaked havoc in various ecosystems, compounding the challenges faced by both human and non-human communities. The ramifications of these extreme weather events are being felt globally, with WMO emphasising their role in catalysing urgent adaptation measures through initiatives like ‘Early Warnings for All.’
During the ongoing International Year of Glaciers’ Preservation designated by the United Nations to highlight the importance of glaciers and ensure that those relying on them and those affected by cryospheric processes, receive the necessary hydrological, meteorological and climate services, we can expect a renewed focus on the cryosphere — the frozen realms of our planet.
Coordinated efforts by UNESCO and WMO shall also highlight the vulnerabilities of these essential ecosystems, further stressing the need for climate resilience.
The Global Water Monitor: 2024 Summary Report, spearheaded by The Australian National University, presented further alarming insights into the state of the global water cycle in the face of rising temperatures. The report outlined a staggering 1.2°C increase in land temperatures since the dawn of the century, with around four billion people across 111 countries experiencing their warmest year yet.
Significantly, the report revealed the catastrophic intersection of climate change and water crisis. Rising sea surface temperatures have led to intensified tropical cyclones and extreme drought conditions, especially in vulnerable regions such as the Amazon Basin and southern Africa. Compounding these conditions, heavier downpours have contributed to devastating floods across Europe, Asia and Brazil.
In 2024 alone, water-related disasters claimed over 8,700 lives, displaced approximately 40 million individuals, and dealt economic blows amounting to over $550 billion.
Notable tragic events include catastrophic flooding in Brazil that claimed more than 80 lives and widespread flash flooding in Afghanistan and Pakistan, resulting in the deaths of over 1,000 people.
The data indicate that record-high monthly rainfall occurrences surged by 27 per cent compared to the early 2000s, while daily rainfall records spiked by 52 per cent. Conversely, regions experienced record-low precipitation events, underscoring the erratic nature of climate change.
In light of the overwhelming evidence presented, it is clear that urgent action is required at multiple levels — individual, community, corporate and governmental — to combat climate change effectively. To drive this agenda forward, various recommendations have emerged as critical pathways to sustainability. First, there must be a concentrated investment in climate resilience; governments and private sectors should prioritise infrastructure designed to withstand extreme weather events, focusing on robust flood defences and heat-resistant urban planning to safeguard vulnerable communities.
Furthermore, the promotion of renewable energy is non-negotiable, requiring a fundamental transition from fossil fuels to sustainable energy sources, supported by incentives from policymakers to foster the development and implementation of these solutions. This shift not only reduces carbon emissions but also stimulates economic growth.
Equally crucial is the strengthening of climate adaptation policies by integrating adaptive measures into existing frameworks, addressing pressing water-related challenges, such as implementing drought-resistant agricultural practices and enhancing water management systems. Public engagement and education are paramount, as raising awareness about climate change and its myriad impacts empowers individuals to contribute positively to climate resilience efforts within their communities.
Additionally, global cooperation and commitment are vital; nations must collaborate, sharing knowledge and resources to establish uniform standards and strategies for addressing climate change, extending this cooperation to research, funding, and technology sharing to maximise the effectiveness of response efforts.
Lastly, consistent monitoring and reporting of progress is essential; thorough evaluation of climate policies and their impacts will enable nations to learn from each other's successes and failures, refine strategies, and cultivate a culture of accountability, ultimately paving the way towards a sustainable and resilient future for all.
As climate change accelerates, the need for enhanced international cooperation becomes more critical than ever. With extreme heat risks growing immensely, a targeted group of experts — including representatives from 15 international organisations and 12 countries — convened at the WMO headquarters in December to develop a coordinated framework for addressing these alarming trends. That provided recommendations for how countries can work together to reduce extreme heat risks and develop strategies to cope with them.
It also established a framework for monitoring and assessing extreme heat risks and the impacts of climate change. However, a consistent and unified response is vital in ensuring public safety through enhanced climate services and early warning systems. The WMO, which will mark its 75th anniversary in 2025, should be committed to observing and monitoring the climate while supporting global efforts aimed at both mitigation and adaptation to climate change.
By embracing a multifaceted approach to climate resilience, we can strive to safeguard our planet for future generations. The time to act is now; failure to respond will usher in consequences that are both unprecedented and irreversible.
We hold the power to influence the trajectory of climate change — the path we choose today will shape the realities of tomorrow. Let us work together to effect meaningful change and foster a sustainable future for our precious planet.
Amal Chandra is the author of The Essential, policy analyst, political commentator and columnist.
Views expressed are the author’s own and don’t necessarily reflect those of Down To Earth.