Antalya:The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has released a report highlighting a continuation of extreme climate conditions in 2026, characterized by record-breaking global temperatures, melting ice, and rising sea levels. A significant El Niño event is expected to further exacerbate these conditions, bringing increased heat and extreme weather into 2027.
According to World Meteorological Organization, the State of the Climate Update 2026 reveals that the past 12 years have been the warmest on record, with the last four years being the top four. The global average surface temperature for January to September 2026 was approximately 1.47 °C above the pre-industrial average, a figure expected to rise due to El Niño's intensifying effects.
The report details that Earth's energy imbalance is increasing as greenhouse gases trap unprecedented amounts of heat. This has led to record ocean heat and the highest recorded sea levels. The melting of glaciers continues, contributing to rising sea levels and impacting ecosystems and water resources globally. Extreme weather events, including heatwaves and tropical cyclones, are intensifying, resulting in significant economic and human costs.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized the urgency of addressing climate change, calling for accelerated emission reductions and financial support for vulnerable countries. The report also notes the importance of forecasts and sustained observations to navigate the increasing risks to societies and economies.
The WMO report was presented at COP31 in Antalya, Türkiye, and includes data up to September 2026. A final report is scheduled for release in March 2027, incorporating further scientific contributions.
Source World Meteorological Organization
