United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has launched a global initiative calling for urgent international cooperation in response to escalating extreme heat events worldwide. This initiative comes in the wake of recent data from the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) identifying the three hottest days ever recorded on Earth.
According to the WMO, July 22, 23, and 21 of 2024 saw daily global average temperatures soar to unprecedented highs of 17.16°C, 17.15°C, and 17.09°C respectively, surpassing the previous record set just last year. Highlighting the urgency of the situation, Guterres emphasized the need for all nations to accelerate efforts to reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
The Secretary-General’s plea was underscored in the report “Call to Action on Extreme Heat,” released on July 25, 2024, marking the first collaborative effort among ten specialized UN agencies including FAO, WHO, and WMO. The report paints a dire picture, warning that billions of people face severe risks from intensifying heatwaves exacerbated by human-induced climate change and continued fossil fuel use.
“Earth is becoming hotter and more dangerous for everyone, everywhere,” stated Guterres, stressing the global impact of extreme heat, which has seen temperatures exceeding 50°C in multiple regions, equivalent to 122°F. The report outlines how these conditions not only threaten lives but also undermine economies, widen inequalities, and impede progress towards Sustainable Development Goals.
The WMO Secretary-General, Celeste Saulo, echoed these concerns, noting that consecutive months have set new temperature records, reflecting a sustained global warming trend. She highlighted the widespread impact of heatwaves across continents, with numerous countries experiencing temperatures well above 50°C in recent months.
Despite the grim outlook, the report offers hope, emphasizing that heat-related illnesses and deaths are preventable through targeted policies and public awareness campaigns. It calls for immediate and substantial reductions in fossil fuel consumption, aligning with global commitments to achieve a 30% reduction by 2030 and ambitious environmental targets set at COP28.
As nations grapple with the escalating climate crisis, Guterres urged concerted action to curb greenhouse gas emissions and transition towards sustainable energy sources. The report’s findings underscore the critical need for collaborative efforts to mitigate the impacts of extreme heat, safeguard vulnerable populations, and secure a sustainable future for all.
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