The hottest day ever recorded on Earth was recorded on Monday, July 3, in an alarming climate milestone. 

US meteorologists reported on Tuesday that the average global temperature exceeded an unprecedented 17 degrees Celsius (62.6 degrees Fahrenheit). The daily record surpasses the previous record set last year and demonstrates that climate change is intensifying.

According to Berkeley Earth scientist Robert Rohde, yesterday was the hottest single day measured by humans. We may well see a few even warmer days over the next six weeks due to El Nio and global warming.”

As a result of climate change and the El Nio weather pattern, parts of the northern United States and Canada have experienced hotter and drier weather. In addition to breaking records, these extreme weather events have far-reaching consequences.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) states that Earth’s rising temperatures have resulted in regional and seasonal temperature extremes, diminished snow cover and sea ice, intensified heavy rainfall, and changed plant and animal habitat ranges.

Climate change poses significant challenges for the planet’s ecosystems and human well-being. Climate change can have a negative impact on agricultural productivity, threaten water resources, and increase the frequency and severity of natural disasters.

Moreover, human activities have implications that cannot be ignored. Approximately 40 billion tonnes of CO2 are released into the atmosphere each year from fossil fuel combustion.

The consequences of rising temperatures go beyond one record-breaking day. According to predictions, temperatures will continue to rise in the coming weeks as the Pacific Ocean continues to experience El Nio conditions.

Climate change is becoming an urgent issue that requires concerted global efforts to mitigate its devastating effects. For our planet and its inhabitants to survive, sustainable practices, renewable energy transitions, and international cooperation are vital.