The European Union’s Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S) has confirmed that 2024 stands as the hottest year on record.
This marked a historic milestone as global temperatures exceeded the 1.5°C threshold above pre-industrial levels for the first time. The milestone underscores the escalating climate crisis, with Africa bearing the brunt of its effects.
Global Records Shattered
The report by C3S reveals a global average temperature of 15.10°C, a significant 0.72°C above the 1991–2020 average and 1.60°C above pre-industrial levels. Alarmingly, 2024 saw 11 months of temperatures exceeding 1.5°C above pre-industrial averages, making it a wake-up call for urgent climate action.
Africa’s Climate Vulnerability
As one of the most climate-vulnerable regions, Africa has been disproportionately affected by rising temperatures. Extreme heat, combined with high humidity levels, has exacerbated heat stress, water scarcity, and food insecurity across the continent.
The increased frequency of extreme weather events, such as cyclones in Mozambique and prolonged droughts in the Sahel, highlights the dire need for climate resilience.
Ali Mohammed, chair of the African Group of Negotiators (AGN), said for Africa, the gravity of the “statistics translate into poverty, livelihood stagnation, and escalating climate-induced conflicts over dwindling resources”.
“The time for pledges is over—this is a moment for bold, decisive action,” he said.
Extreme Weather and its Consequences
2024 witnessed record-breaking heat across continents, sparing only Antarctica and Australasia. In Africa, rising sea surface temperatures in the Indian Ocean intensified tropical storms, while desertification expanded in arid regions, threatening agriculture and livelihoods.
The total water vapour in the atmosphere also reached record levels, amplifying the risk of devastating floods and storms.
Paris Agreement Goals at Risk
The report underscores the challenge of meeting the Paris Agreement’s 1.5°C target due to persistent global reliance on fossil fuels, inadequate financing, and lack of coordinated action.
Carlo Buontempo, director of C3S, said “humanity is in charge of its own destiny, but how we respond to the climate challenge must be based on evidence.”
Mohammed criticised developed countries for failing to meet their Paris agreement obligations, urging global leaders to prioritise net-zero emissions and invest in renewable energy for Africa.
Africa’s Path Forward
Despite its vulnerability, Africa holds immense potential to lead the global energy transition. Investments in renewable energy, such as solar and wind power, can decarbonise economies and build resilience.
Mohammed called on developed nations to honour their commitments under the Paris agreement, including financing adaptation measures and transferring clean energy technologies.
“Africa’s voice is clear. We need transformative action now to avert the worst impacts of climate change,” he said.
2024’s record-breaking heat serves as a stark warning. Without immediate, decisive action, the world risks surpassing the limits of climate resilience.
