World entering ‘age of climate extremes’, says UN chief

The United Nations chief, Antonio Guterres, has warned that humanity is entering a new age of climate extremes. This assertion comes as a colossal El Nino event collides with a planet already overheated by human-induced climate change, according to Guterres. Addressing the COP31 climate conference in Turkey, Guterres urged leaders to adopt more ambitious measures, including faster emission cuts, a just transition away from fossil fuels, and the provision of necessary financial and protective resources for vulnerable nations.

The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) corroborated Guterres' assertions, reporting that the past 12 years have all been among the hottest on record, with 2026 expected to be one of the hottest years ever. The current exceptionally strong El Nino is projected to unleash further heat and extreme weather conditions well into the following year.

Preliminary data suggests that 2026 could join the ranks of the four warmest years on record, although the final numbers may place it slightly below the top spot. The WMO also noted that the global sea level reached an all-time high, freshwater resources were dwindling, and glaciers continued their long-term retreat. Furthermore, the organization highlighted the intensification of extreme weather events such as heatwaves, tropical cyclones, and rainstorms, which are surpassing historical baselines.

On a positive note, the WMO commended a significant increase in the number of countries equipped with essential multi-hazard early warning systems, rising from 55 in 2015 to 136 last year. However, the organization emphasized the need for continued investment in global observations, data gathering, and forecasting to ensure these systems remain effective.