The year 2024 was marked by a notable intensification of heatwaves around the world. According to a report published by Climate Central, humanity experienced an average of 41 additional days of extreme heat. Some regions even recorded more than 150 days of dangerous temperatures, highlighting the growing impact of climate change, particularly in Southern countries.
The most vulnerable regions on the frontline
Kristina Dahl, vice president of climate science at Climate Central, explains that the poorest nations are bearing the brunt of this intensification. “Countries like Grenada or Trinidad and Tobago have recorded 150 days or more of extreme heat directly attributable to climate change,” she specifies.
Alarming data
To establish these conclusions, scientists compared temperatures recorded in 2024 to those expected in a world without global warming. The result is unequivocal: the frequency and intensity of extreme events, such as droughts, tropical cyclones, and heavy rainfall, are significantly increasing.
“These events destroy lives, livelihoods, and affect millions of people,” emphasizes Friederike Otto, a climatologist at Imperial College London. In 2024, no less than 29 extreme weather events caused the deaths of 3,700 people and displaced millions more. Among them, 26 are directly linked to climate change.
Worrying proximity to the 1.5 °C limit
The report also reminds us that the planet is dangerously close to the 1.5 °C warming limit set by the Paris Agreement. This threshold, which was meant to avoid the most catastrophic impacts of climate change, seems increasingly difficult to adhere to.
Urgency to act
In light of these figures, experts are calling for strengthening resilience to extreme climate phenomena. “Early and effective action can save lives,” insists Friederike Otto. Education, prevention, and adaptation to climate risks are becoming absolute priorities to limit human and economic damage.
The year 2024 resonates as a warning: inaction in the face of climate change will only exacerbate these phenomena, making a global and urgent response even more necessary.