Why Was 2024 The Hottest Year on Record: Explained

By Sheetal Kumari | January 15, 2025

Why Was 2024 The Hottest Year on Record: Explained

NASA scientists confirm 2024 as the warmest year since records began, surpassing 2023’s record temperatures.

2024: Earth’s Hottest Year 

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Global temperatures in 2024 were 2.30°F (1.28°C) higher than the 20th-century average, setting a new heat record.

Rising Temperatures

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For 15 consecutive months, global temperatures set new monthly records, an unprecedented heat streak that started in June 2023.

Unprecedented Heat Streak

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NASA Administrator Bill Nelson highlighted the urgency of understanding the changing planet amid the record temperatures and wildfires in California.

NASA’s Statement

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In 2024, Earth was 2.65°F (1.47°C) warmer than the mid-19th century, reflecting an alarming rise in global temperatures.

Warming Trend Analysis

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The Paris Agreement aims to limit warming to 1.5°C. 2024 is already nearing that level, with temperatures now close to the Pliocene era warmth.

Climate Agreement Context

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The strong El Niño of 2023 helped push global temperatures to new heights, continuing into 2024, despite its weakening later in the year.

Natural Climate Variations

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Carbon dioxide emissions continue to rise, with concentrations now around 420 parts per million, compared to 278 parts per million pre-industrial levels.

Carbon Emissions Impact

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Changes in climate are now visible at the local level, with more extreme rainfall, heat waves, and flooding risks affecting daily weather.

Local Climate Impacts

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Independent analyses from NOAA, Berkeley Earth, and Copernicus Climate Services confirm that 2024’s global surface temperatures are the highest recorded in modern history.

Independent Data Validation

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