UN CALLS FOR RED ALERT AMID RECORD HEAT

Why in the news?

The United Nations‘ weather chief has called for a global “red alert“ due to unprecedented temperatures in August 2024.
Preliminary data from the EU’s climate monitor indicates record-high average temperatures globally, continuing the trend from August 2023.
Australia, Japan, parts of China, and Norway experienced their hottest August on record.

source:Hindustantimes

Highlights of the Climate Records and Global Alerts:

Record Temperatures: August 2024 saw record-breaking average temperatures globally for the second consecutive year. Australia, Japan, parts of China, and Norway recorded their hottest August ever.
Global Warming: The UN’s World Meteorological Organization (WMO) chief, Celeste Saulo, called for a global “red alert” due to rising temperatures, attributing them to insufficient action on climate change.

Ongoing Temperature Trends:

Continuous Records: August 2024 continues a 15-month streak of monthly temperature records. July 2024 was slightly cooler than July 2023 but was still considered the hottest month on record by some agencies.
Historical Comparison: July 2024 temperatures were 48°C above the average from 1850-1900, reflecting the impact of fossil fuel emissions.

What is a heatwave?

Definition: A heatwave is a period of abnormally high temperatures, exceeding normal maximums.
Qualitative Aspect: It describes conditions where temperatures become dangerous or fatal to human health.
Quantitative Aspect: Defined by exceeding specific temperature thresholds or significant departures from normal temperatures in a region.

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