July was Earth’s third-hottest month on record: EU scientists
The latest climate data from the European Union’s Copernicus Climate Change Service has revealed that July 2025 was the third-hottest month on record, with a global average surface air temperature of 16.68°C. This marks a significant increase of 0.45°C above the 1991-2020 average, and a staggering 1.25°C above the pre-industrial period of 1850-1900.
The record-breaking heat was not limited to just one region, with several countries around the world experiencing extreme temperatures. Turkey, in particular, reached a scorching 50.5°C, making it one of the hottest temperatures ever recorded on the continent.
According to the data, July 2025 was not as hot as the record-setting July 2023, which saw a global average surface air temperature of 17.06°C. However, it was warmer than the second-warmest July on record, which was 2024, with a temperature of 16.54°C.
The data also highlights the ongoing trend of global warming, with the average global surface temperature continuing to rise above the pre-industrial period. This is a critical concern, as it has significant implications for the environment, human health, and the economy.
So, what are the main factors driving this unprecedented heat? Climate scientists point to several key factors, including:
- Rising greenhouse gas emissions: The concentration of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases in the atmosphere has increased significantly since the Industrial Revolution, primarily due to human activities such as burning fossil fuels and deforestation.
- Global warming: As the Earth’s atmosphere traps more heat, the planet’s average surface temperature rises. This, in turn, leads to more extreme weather events, such as heatwaves, droughts, and heavy rainfall.
- Climate change: The changing climate is also contributing to the record-breaking heat. Climate change is causing the jet stream to become more unstable, leading to a greater frequency of extreme weather events.
The consequences of these factors cannot be overstated. Rising temperatures are having a devastating impact on ecosystems, biodiversity, and human societies around the world. From more frequent and intense natural disasters to increased risk of water scarcity, food insecurity, and heat-related illnesses, the effects of climate change are far-reaching and devastating.
So, what can we do to mitigate the effects of climate change? There are several steps that individuals, communities, and governments can take:
- Reduce greenhouse gas emissions: Transitioning to renewable energy sources, increasing energy efficiency, and adopting sustainable land-use practices can significantly reduce emissions.
- Adapt to climate change: Implementing climate-resilient infrastructure, developing early warning systems, and promoting climate-smart agriculture can help communities adapt to the changing climate.
- Support climate change research and policy: Continued research and policy development are crucial for understanding the impacts of climate change and developing effective solutions.
In conclusion, July 2025’s record-breaking heat is a stark reminder of the urgent need for climate action. While the news may seem daunting, it is essential to remain hopeful and proactive in addressing the challenges posed by climate change. By working together, we can reduce emissions, adapt to the changing climate, and build a more sustainable future for all.
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