Europe Experiences Record Warmth

In 2024, Europe recorded its warmest year to date, with variations in climate across the continent. Eastern Europe faced extreme dryness and heat, while the western regions experienced warm but wetter conditions. The European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts reported that 45% of days in Europe were much warmer than average, with 12% marking new temperature records. The average temperature in Europe is now 2.4°C above pre-industrial levels.

Regional Temperature Variations

Eastern and southern Europe are experiencing the most severe warming. In contrast, Iceland and parts of Greenland were the only areas with cooler-than-average temperatures. Svalbard recorded summer temperatures that exceeded previous highs by 1°C, marking its third consecutive record warm summer. The Arctic as a whole also saw temperature increases, with regional disparities in warming.

Glacial and Ice Mass Loss

Glaciers in Svalbard and Scandinavia faced unprecedented mass loss in 2024. The Greenland Ice Sheet recorded its third smallest mass loss since 2001. The western Arctic regions maintained near-average temperatures, while the eastern parts experienced record highs. This disparity has led to ice loss, especially in Svalbard, which recorded the largest glacier mass loss globally in 2024.

Sea Surface Temperatures

The sea surface temperatures (SST) across Europe reached record levels, measuring 0.7°C above average. The Mediterranean Sea recorded an even higher average increase of 1.2°C. SST is crucial for understanding the energy exchange between the ocean and atmosphere, influencing weather patterns and climate.

Precipitation Patterns

Western Europe experienced one of its wettest years since 1950, with rainfall recorded in countries like France and Belgium. Conversely, eastern and southeastern Europe faced drier-than-average conditions. Overall, 34% of Europe’s land area saw above-average precipitation, which contributed to increased flooding risks.

Extreme Weather Events

The year 2024 was marked by intensified extreme weather events. The longest heatwave on record affected southeastern Europe in July, with night-time temperatures rising . The region recorded 23 tropical nights, surpassing the previous record of 16. Wildfires also devastated large areas, particularly in Portugal, impacting thousands of residents.

Health and Environmental Impacts

Rising temperatures and extreme weather pose serious health risks. Increased night-time temperatures provide little relief from daytime heat, potentially affecting vulnerable populations. The World Meteorological Organization emphasised the need for adaptation and improved early warning systems to mitigate these risks.

Global Climate Implications

The ongoing warming trend in Europe reflects broader global climate changes. Every fraction of a degree rise in temperature increases risks to health, economies, and ecosystems. There is an urgent need for collective action to address these challenges and enhance resilience against climate impacts.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically discuss the implications of rising sea surface temperatures on marine biodiversity and weather patterns.
2. Examine the relationship between climate change and the frequency of extreme weather events in Europe.
3. What measures can be taken to enhance resilience against climate change impacts in vulnerable regions? Point out their effectiveness.
4. Analyse the socio-economic consequences of increasing temperatures on agricultural productivity in Europe.

Answer Hints:

1. Critically discuss the implications of rising sea surface temperatures on marine biodiversity and weather patterns.

1. Rising sea surface temperatures (SST) can lead to coral bleaching, affecting marine ecosystems.
2. Higher SSTs can disrupt fish migration patterns, impacting fisheries and local economies.
3. Increased SST contributes to more intense storms and altered weather patterns, leading to extreme weather events.
4. Warmer oceans can enhance evaporation rates, influencing precipitation patterns and climate variability.
5. Changes in marine biodiversity can affect food webs and the overall health of ocean ecosystems.

2. Examine the relationship between climate change and the frequency of extreme weather events in Europe.

1. Climate change increases the frequency and intensity of heatwaves, as seen in southeastern Europe.
2. Warmer temperatures lead to more extreme precipitation events, contributing to flooding risks.
3. Changes in atmospheric circulation patterns due to warming can cause prolonged droughts in some regions.
4. Extreme weather events are becoming more widespread, with records being set for both heat and rainfall.
5. The increased occurrence of wildfires is directly linked to rising temperatures and extreme weather conditions.

3. What measures can be taken to enhance resilience against climate change impacts in vulnerable regions? Point out their effectiveness.

1. Implementing early warning systems can help communities prepare for extreme weather events, reducing casualties.
2. Investing in sustainable agriculture practices can enhance food security and reduce vulnerability to climate impacts.
3. Restoring natural habitats, such as wetlands, can mitigate flooding and support biodiversity resilience.
4. Improving infrastructure to withstand extreme weather can protect communities and reduce economic losses.
5. Community engagement and education on climate adaptation strategies can empower local populations to take action.

4. Analyse the socio-economic consequences of increasing temperatures on agricultural productivity in Europe.

1. Higher temperatures can lead to reduced crop yields, especially for temperature-sensitive crops like wheat and corn.
2. Increased frequency of droughts can strain water resources, affecting irrigation and crop viability.
3. Shifts in growing seasons may benefit some regions while disadvantaging others, leading to economic disparities.
4. Rising temperatures can increase pest and disease prevalence, threatening agricultural output and food security.
5. Adaptation measures, such as crop diversification, can mitigate some negative impacts but may require investment and support.