UN Warns 2026 Could Be One of the Four Hottest Years on Record

The United Nations' World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has released its "State of the Climate" report, which reveals that the global average temperature from January to September 2026 was 1.47 degrees Celsius higher than pre-industrial levels. This report comes as Turkey is set to host the UN Climate Conference, COP31, from November 1 to 20, with international participation aimed at continuing negotiations on climate change based on the latest scientific data.

According to the WMO, the past 12 years, including 2026, have been among the 12 hottest years since records began in 1850. The report is based on nine sets of climate data and highlights the accelerating effects of global warming. WMO's climate information chief, John Kennedy, stated that various climate indicators confirm the acceleration of the greenhouse effect, with accumulated heat from greenhouse gases affecting oceans, the atmosphere, melting ice, and rising sea levels.

The WMO report also notes that 2026 is likely to be influenced by a strong El Niño event, which could lead to further temperature increases. El Niño events tend to raise global temperatures, and the WMO is concerned that this could exacerbate the already alarming rate of global warming. As the international community gathers for COP31, these findings underscore the urgent need for concerted action to mitigate climate change.

The UN Climate Conference in Turkey will bring together international leaders and experts to discuss strategies for reducing emissions and addressing the impacts of climate change. The conference aims to build on previous agreements and make progress toward achieving global climate goals. With the latest scientific data indicating a rapidly worsening climate situation, the stakes are high for the negotiations.

Rising global temperatures have severe implications for ecosystems, human health, and the economy. The WMO report highlights the need for immediate action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and transition to renewable energy sources. As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change, the international community must work together to develop and implement effective solutions.

The WMO's climate data has significant implications for policymakers, scientists, and the general public. By tracking climate trends and indicators, researchers can better understand the dynamics of global warming and develop targeted strategies for mitigation and adaptation. As climate change continues to accelerate, access to accurate and reliable climate data will be crucial for informing decision-making.

As COP31 gets underway, the WMO's findings will likely feature prominently in discussions. With the global temperature continuing to rise, there is a growing sense of urgency around the need for collective action to address climate change. The conference provides an opportunity for countries to share best practices, commit to new targets, and work toward a more sustainable future.

Key points

• The UN's World Meteorological Organization warns that 2026 could be one of the four hottest years on record.