Human-Caused Global Warming Hits Four Out of Five People
A flash study conducted by Climate Central, a respected science nonprofit, reveals the concerning impact of human-caused global warming on July’s temperatures.
The study found that four out of five people on Earth experienced hotter weather due to climate change, affecting over 2 billion people daily.
Over 6.5 Billion People Feel the Heat
According to the report by Climate Central, an astonishing 6.5 billion people, which accounts for 81% of the global population, endured at least one day of significant climate change effects on their average daily temperature. The findings underscore the far-reaching influence of climate change on our daily lives.
Climate Change Fingerprints Detected
Researchers examined 4,711 cities worldwide and found climate change fingerprints in 4,019 of them during July.
The study links the burning of fossil fuels to a three-fold increase in the likelihood of experiencing extreme heat on at least one day. In the United States, Florida was most affected, with over 244 million people feeling the heat due to climate change throughout July.
Tropical Belt Sweating Through Persistent Heat
Approximately 2 billion people residing in a primarily tropical belt across the globe faced the reality of hotter temperatures every single day of July, with cities like Mecca, Saudi Arabia, and San Pedro Sula, Honduras, being impacted. July 10 stood out as the day with the most widespread climate change effect, affecting a staggering 3.5 billion people globally.
July 2023: On Track for the Hottest Month Ever
July is set to go down in history as the hottest month globally, and possibly the warmest experienced by human civilization. With temperatures surpassing pre-industrial levels by 1.5 degrees Celsius for a record 16 days, this month is shattering previous records.
Heatwaves Blistering Across Continents
Heatwaves have scorched three continents—North America, Europe, and Asia—pushing the mercury off the charts. The US Southwest, in particular, has endured an all-month heatwave that shows no signs of stopping, impacting more than 128 million Americans under heat advisories.
The Harbinger of Climate-Altering Changes
Scientists warn that such extreme heat records are a clear indication of impending climate-altering changes as the planet warms. The consequences go beyond prolonged heat waves, leading to increased flooding, longer-lasting wildfires, and extreme weather events that threaten communities worldwide.
Global Call to Action
United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urges world leaders, especially those from affluent nations, to take bold action in reducing heat-trapping gas emissions. Despite international climate negotiations and pledges from many countries and companies, greenhouse gas emissions continue to rise, exacerbating the challenges posed by global warming.
Detecting Climate Change Fingerprints
Climate science has made remarkable progress, enabling experts to accurately detect global warming’s fingerprints on certain extreme weather events, such as heatwaves. Rigorous research now allows scientists to determine if certain events were more likely or severe due to human-made global warming.
Advancements in Climate Attribution Studies
The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine report that climate science has advanced to the point where experts can attribute certain extreme weather events, like heatwaves, to global warming. Studies based on decades of observational records, a detailed understanding of atmospheric physics, and sophisticated computer simulations have provided valuable insights.
As climate science continues to progress, the imperative to mitigate human impact on the environment becomes even more critical. Reducing emissions, transitioning to renewable energy sources, and fostering global cooperation is essential in safeguarding the planet for current and future generations. The urgency of the climate crisis calls for collective action, innovation, and transformative changes in our energy systems and lifestyles. The time to act is now.
