WMO Statement on the State of the Global Climate in 2018
WMO’s latest report on global temperatures, extreme weather and climate change indicators and socio-economic impacts is “yet another strong wake-up call” on the need for more ambitious climate action, according to United Nations Secretary General António Guterres.
The WMO Statement on the State of the Global Climate in 2018 was formally launched at a joint press conference with the UN Secretary General, UN General Assembly President María Fernanda Espinosa Garcés and WMO Secretary-General Petteri Taalas on 28 March at United Nations headquarters in New York
“I have to say that, as Secretary-General of the United Nations, I am very proud of the work of the World Meteorological Organization. It provides a very solid, scientific base for the analysis that is absolutely essential in relation to how climate change is evolving, and as a clear guide to our actions in the future,” said Mr Guterres.
Some facts:
- 2018 was the fourth warmest year on record.
- 2015–2018 were the four warmest years on record as the long-term warming trend continues.
- Ocean heat content is at a record high and global mean sea level continues to rise.
- Artic and Antarctic sea-ice extent is well below average.
- Extreme weather had an impact on lives and sustainable development on every continent.
- Average global temperature reached approximately 1 °C above pre-industrial levels.
- We are not on track to meet climate change targets and rein in temperature increases.