WMO Warns of Record Global Heat Levels Through 2035

The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has projected that global temperatures are likely to remain at historically high levels over the next decade, raising fresh concerns over accelerating climate change and its worldwide consequences. The warning comes in the WMO’s latest “Global Annual to Decadal Climate Update 2026–2035,” prepared with contributions from several international climate research centres.

According to the report, average global temperatures between 2026 and 2030 are expected to stay between 1.3°C and 1.9°C above pre-industrial levels. Scientists estimate there is a very high probability that at least one year during this period will become the hottest ever recorded, surpassing previous temperature records.

The report also highlighted a strong likelihood that global temperatures could temporarily cross the critical 1.5°C warming threshold outlined in the Paris Climate Agreement. While experts clarified that a temporary breach does not indicate permanent failure of international climate targets, they warned it signals increasing pressure on global ecosystems and weather systems.

The WMO stated that the Arctic region is warming at a much faster rate than the rest of the world. Winter temperatures in the Arctic are projected to rise significantly over the coming years, contributing to rapid ice melt and environmental disruption in polar areas.

Climate scientists also predicted changes in rainfall patterns across different regions. Areas including Northern Europe, the Sahel region in Africa, Alaska, and Siberia are expected to experience wetter-than-normal conditions, while parts of the Amazon basin may face drier weather in the coming decade.

The report linked the rising temperatures to continued greenhouse gas emissions and the possible return of El Niño conditions, which could intensify global heat further. Experts warned that increasing temperatures are already contributing to more frequent heatwaves, floods, droughts, wildfires, and other extreme weather events worldwide. The WMO urged governments to accelerate climate action, reduce carbon emissions, and strengthen adaptation measures to minimise the growing risks associated with global warming and environmental instability.