Europe is freezing, the planet is warming. BBC explains what to expect next from the climate.

November 2024 is the second warmest on record

The Copernicus Climate Centre has reported that November 2024 was the second warmest month after last November. According to the data from the Centre's deputy head, Samantha Burgess, this indicates that 2024 will be the hottest year on record. Achieving the goals of the Paris Agreement requires ambitious steps to combat climate change.

Overshooting the warming limit

2024 will be the first year when global temperatures exceed the 1.5°C warming threshold. World leaders agreed to limit the temperature rise to 2°C, but scientists are not particularly hopeful that this will be achieved.

Catastrophic consequences of climate change

Climate change has catastrophic consequences for humanity, including loss of life and economic damages. Additionally, it leads to changes in weather patterns and problems with the cooling and circulation system of water and air. Europe is facing cold temperatures and floods driven by climate change.

High prices for electricity and heating in Europe due to the gas war

Currently, there is a gas war between the EU and Russia, leading to high prices for electricity and heating in Europe. November was cool and windless, exacerbating the energy crisis. Gas stocks in European underground storage are insufficient, leading to increases in electricity and heating prices for European consumers.

A cold winter and warmer spring are forecasted

Forecasters predict another wave of cold and snow in some European countries. However, long-term forecasts offer hope for slightly warmer January and February. Researchers also warn of the possibility of complete ice melt in the Arctic by the summer of 2027.