2024 Warmest Year on Record in Europe, Finds European State of the Climate Report​

Europe experienced its hottest year on record in 2024, according to the latest European State of the Climate report, jointly released by the EU’s Copernicus Climate Change Service and the World Meteorological Organization (WMO). The report highlights the continent’s escalating climate crisis, marked by unprecedented temperatures, widespread flooding, and severe weather events.​Time+2The Guardian+2Latest news & breaking headlines+2

Record-Breaking Temperatures Across the Continent

In 2024, Europe emerged as the fastest-warming continent, with average temperatures significantly surpassing previous records. Central, eastern, and southeastern regions were particularly affected, experiencing record-high annual temperatures. Notably, almost half of Europe recorded unprecedented warmth, underscoring the intensifying impact of climate change. ​Log in or sign up to view+7Defence Industry and Space+7World Meteorological Organization+7World Meteorological Organization+1Defence Industry and Space+1

Sea surface temperatures also reached new highs, with the European region averaging 0.7°C above normal and the Mediterranean Sea exceeding its average by 1.2°C. ​World Meteorological Organization

Extreme Weather Events and Their Impact

The year was marked by a series of extreme weather events, including severe floods, storms, and heatwaves, affecting over 413,000 people across Europe. Central Europe and eastern Spain faced the deadliest floods in September and October, resulting in more than 250 of the year’s 335 flood-related deaths. ​Reuters+3The Guardian+3World Meteorological Organization+3

Southeastern Europe endured its longest recorded heatwave, while wildfires, particularly in Portugal, burned 110,000 hectares and affected 42,000 people. Glacial ice loss reached unprecedented levels, and sea temperatures also peaked. The report emphasized growing disparities in weather patterns across regions and underlined the urgency of climate adaptation and mitigation. ​The Guardian+1Wikipedia+1

Economic and Environmental Consequences

The economic toll from these weather extremes, predominantly floods and storms, surpassed €18 billion. The devastating floods in Valencia accounted for 232 of the casualties. Storm Boris brought record-setting rainfall to Central Europe, including Austria, Czechia, Germany, and Slovakia. ​Time+2Reuters+2Latest news & breaking headlines+2

In contrast, Southeastern Europe experienced a record 13-day heatwave, and Scandinavia saw unprecedented glacier shrinkage, while Eastern Europe grappled with drought. The global climate context was dire, with 2024 being the hottest year on record globally and in Europe, now the fastest-warming continent. ​Wikipedia – Die freie Enzyklopädie+8Reuters+8European Commission+8

Calls for Urgent Climate Action

The report underscores the urgent need for accelerated climate action. Experts warn that without stronger measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and halt new fossil fuel projects, Europe could face even more devastating impacts as global temperatures continue to rise. ​The Guardian

Despite these challenges, renewable energy generation reached a record high, accounting for 45% of Europe’s energy, and many cities established climate adaptation plans. Scientists highlighted that higher atmospheric temperatures and increased water vapor due to climate change are intensifying extreme weather events such as torrential rain and flooding. ​Reuters+1Latest news & breaking headlines+1

As Europe confronts the realities of a warming climate, the findings of the European State of the Climate report serve as a stark reminder of the need for immediate and sustained action to mitigate the impacts of climate change and build resilience across the continent.