Earth sizzles as 2023 claims the title of hottest year in history – What this means for our future

If you thought your 2023 had its ups and downs, spare a thought for Earth – because it’s officially the hottest year on record! The Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S) has spilled the scalding tea, and we’re here to break down what this blazing revelation means for our beloved planet.

November 2023 takes the crown for the warmest November globally, with an average surface temperature of 14.22°C (57.6°F). That’s a whopping 1.75°C (35.15°F) over the average temperature from 1850 to 1900, according to C3S’ ERA5 data record dating back to 1940.

Samantha Burgess, Deputy Director of C3S, spills the climate beans: “2023 has flaunted six record-breaking months and two sizzling seasons. Brace yourselves, because November 2023 even dared to outshine any November in the past 83 years!”

Buontempo stresses, “As long as greenhouse gas concentrations keep rising, expect more of the same. The temperature will soar, and we’ll be dealing with hotter heatwaves and thirstier droughts. The key? Achieving net zero ASAP to manage our climate risks.”

António Guterres, the United Nations Secretary-General, isn’t mincing words. He’s sounding the alarm at COP28, urging leaders to sprint towards urgent changes. In a compelling video message, he declares, “We’ve got a roadmap to limit the global temperature rise to 1.5°C – the sweet spot to dodge climate chaos. But, leaders, it’s time to fire the starting gun at COP28. Let’s triple renewables, double energy efficiency, and wave goodbye to fossil fuels with a clear timeline.”

So, as 2023 claims the throne of scorching supremacy, world leaders, are you ready to turn down the heat? The clock is ticking, and Earth is counting on us to keep its cool.