The United Nations’ weather agency has officially verified a temperature of 48.8 degrees Celsius recorded on the Italian island of Sicily as the highest ever documented in Europe. Announced on Tuesday, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) confirmed that the record-setting temperature was observed on August 11, 2021, during a period of extreme heat that gripped the continent.
This new record surpasses the previous European high of 48.0 degrees Celsius, which was recorded in the Greek cities of Athens and Elefsina on July 10, 1977. The WMO’s confirmation underscores the intensifying impacts of climate change, as heatwaves become more frequent and severe across the globe.
“The verification of these extreme temperatures is critical for understanding the realities of our changing climate,” said a spokesperson from the WMO. “These records are not just numbers; they represent the heightened risks to human health, agriculture, and the environment.”
The confirmation comes at a time when many regions around the world, including Asia, are experiencing unprecedented weather events. From scorching temperatures in South Asia to severe flooding in East Asia, the effects of global warming are becoming increasingly evident.
Experts warn that without significant efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, such extreme weather events will continue to escalate. For countries across Asia, this could mean more frequent heatwaves, threats to food security, and challenges to economic stability.
The WMO’s verification serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for international cooperation on climate action. As global attention turns toward sustainable solutions, it is imperative for nations to collaborate in mitigating the impacts of climate change for the sake of future generations.
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UN confirms 48.8 degrees as Europe's highest-ever temperature
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