New data from the EU-funded Copernicus Climate Change Service reveals January 2026 as the fifth-warmest January globally, with temperatures averaging 12.95°C – 0.28°C cooler than 2025's record high but still 1.45°C above pre-industrial levels. This continuation of temperature extremes underscores growing climate volatility across Asia and worldwide.
Regional analysis shows stark contrasts: Northern China experienced unprecedented winter warmth, while Japan faced heavy snowfall disrupting transportation. Southeast Asian nations reported intensified monsoon patterns affecting agricultural cycles, raising concerns among food security experts.
"These patterns align with climate model projections," said Dr. Lin Wei, environmental scientist at Singapore's Climate Research Institute. "What's critical now is how governments and businesses adapt infrastructure and policies to these new normal conditions."
Investors are closely monitoring Asia's renewable energy sector, with solar power installations increasing 18% year-over-year across the Chinese mainland. Meanwhile, insurance analysts warn that extreme weather events could cost Asian economies up to $160 billion annually by 2030 if mitigation efforts lag.
The report comes as APEC members prepare for April's Climate Finance Ministers' Meeting, where developing nations are expected to push for increased funding for climate resilience projects. Cross-strait environmental cooperation remains limited, though researchers in the Taiwan region have independently reported similar temperature trend observations.
