The World Meteorological Organization has issued a stark warning that record-breaking greenhouse gas concentrations are driving unprecedented heat across land and oceans, pushing the Earth’s climate further out of balance than ever recorded.
According to the agency, the period from 2015 to 2025 marks the hottest decade in modern history, with the last 11 years setting consecutive temperature records. Global temperatures in 2025 were approximately 1.43°C above the pre-industrial baseline (1850 to 1900), underscoring the accelerating pace of climate change.
Rising Emissions and Climate Imbalance
The WMO highlighted that key greenhouse gases – carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide – reached all-time highs in 2024, with early data indicating continued increases in 2025. These emissions are intensifying the Earth’s energy imbalance, a growing concern in climate science.
This imbalance occurs when more energy from the sun is absorbed than released back into space. The result is a steady accumulation of heat within the planet’s system, primarily driven by greenhouse gases trapping outgoing radiation.
Oceans Absorbing Majority of Heat
A critical finding from the WMO report is that nearly 90 percent of excess heat is being absorbed by the world’s oceans. This has led to record ocean temperatures, contributing to rising sea levels and increased risks for coastal communities.
More than three billion people globally depend on marine and coastal ecosystems, while nearly 11 percent of the world’s population lives in low-lying coastal areas, making them highly vulnerable to climate-related hazards such as flooding and storm surges.
Accelerating Sea Level Rise and Ice Melt
The report also highlights the continued retreat of glaciers and the melting of land-based ice, both of which are major contributors to rising sea levels. These long-term changes threaten infrastructure, ecosystems, and livelihoods across the globe.
Urgent Need for Climate Action and Early Warning Systems
Beyond presenting alarming data, the WMO emphasized the importance of strengthening early warning systems and climate forecasting capabilities. Improved access to timely and accurate information can help communities mitigate the impacts of extreme weather events and adapt to changing environmental conditions.
With more than three decades of climate monitoring, the WMO’s latest findings reinforce the urgency for coordinated global action to reduce emissions, stabilize the climate system, and protect vulnerable populations from escalating climate risks.
BABURAJAN KIZHAKEDATH
