Extreme heat waves and drought, UN: We will have record temperatures

2026-05-28 11:13:37Kosova&Bota SHKRUAR NGA REDAKSIA VOX

Extreme heat waves and drought, UN: We will have record temperatures

A series of record-breaking years is "almost certain" by 2030 as the climate crisis continues to worsen, the UN's World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has warned.

According to the new report, prepared by the UK Met Office, there is an 86% probability that at least one year between 2026 and 2030 will break the record of 2024 as the hottest year ever recorded. There is also a 75% chance that the average global temperature for the period 2026–2030 will exceed 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels.

Scientists warn that the continued rise in carbon dioxide emissions from fossil fuels is "trapping" heat in the atmosphere, adding to extreme heat waves, droughts and floods in many regions of the world.

The report also highlights the potential impact of an El Niño event, which is expected to increase global temperatures. According to forecasts, there is up to a 96% chance of an El Niño developing between December 2026 and February 2027, which could make 2027 a strong candidate for a new global temperature record.

UN climate chief Simon Stiell has warned that extreme heatwaves are already causing serious consequences for lives and economies, highlighting the urgent need to move away from dependence on fossil fuels and towards clean energy.

El Niño is one of the natural factors that can temporarily amplify global warming, releasing accumulated heat from the oceans into the atmosphere.

Meanwhile, scientists emphasize that exceeding 1.5°C significantly increases the risk of extreme weather events, while any reduction in emissions can help limit future damage.


Video