Record-Breaking Heatwave Marks Hottest Day In History

On Monday, Jul. 3, the average global temperature soared to unprecedented levels, surpassing 17 degrees Celsius for the very first time.

According to researchers in the United States, this new record represents the highest temperature ever documented since instrumental records have been kept, dating back to the late 19th century.

Scientists attribute this extreme heat to a combination of factors. Firstly, a natural weather phenomenon called El Niño is believed to have played a role.

Additionally, ongoing carbon dioxide emissions caused by human activities contribute significantly to rising temperatures.

Furthermore, it has been confirmed that last month, June, has officially become the hottest June ever recorded worldwide.

Scientists at the US National Centers for Environmental Prediction said that on Jul. 3, the world's average temperature reached a historic milestone of 17.01 degrees Celsius, surpassing the previous record of 16.92 degrees Celsius set in August 2016.

Concerns among researchers about rising temperatures on both land and sea have been growing since the beginning of this year.

Unprecedented heatwaves have swept across various regions, with Spain and several Asian countries experiencing record-breaking temperatures during spring.

Unusual marine heatwaves have also occurred in locations such as the North Sea, which are not accustomed to such events.

China has been grappling with an enduring heatwave this week, witnessing temperatures surpassing 35 degrees Celsius in some areas. Similarly, the southern United States has been facing oppressive conditions due to scorching temperatures.

This new record represents the highest global temperature since satellite monitoring began in 1979.

Experts further assert that it is also the highest temperature recorded since comprehensive instrumental records were established in the late 19th century.

"The average global surface air temperature reaching 17C for the first time since we have reliable records available is a significant symbolic milestone in our warming world," said climate researcher Leon Simons.

"Now that the warmer phase of El Niño is starting we can expect a lot more daily, monthly, and annual records breaking in the next 1.5 years."

The record-breaking temperature reached on Monday coincides with the confirmation that June has officially become the hottest June ever recorded globally.

Average temperatures worldwide during June were 1.46 degrees Celsius higher than the average temperatures recorded between the years 1850 and 1900, BBC reported.

"Chances are that July will be the warmest ever, and with it the hottest month ever: 'ever' meaning since the Eemian which is some 120,000 years ago," said Karsten Haustein, from the University of Leipzig.

"While Southern Hemisphere temperatures will drop a bit in the next few days, chances are that July and August will see even warmer days yet given that El Niño is now pretty much in full swing."