Global Temperatures Surge, May Records Second Warmest Month in History
In a striking report by the European Union’s Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S), May 2025 has been recorded as the second warmest May since climate records began, with global surface temperatures averaging 1.4°C (2.5°F) above pre-industrial levels (1850-1900). The most significant increases were observed in the Middle East, West Asia, northeastern Russia, and northern Canada. Notably, this month marked a respite from the relentless trend of exceeding the 1.5°C threshold for the first time in 22 months.
C3S Director Carlo Buontempo cautioned that while this decline offers a temporary relief, the planet is likely to surpass the critical 1.5°C mark again soon due to ongoing climate warming. The heightened temperatures have been particularly pronounced in regions like Pakistan’s Jacobabad city, where residents are enduring extreme heat nearing 50°C (122°F).
Amidst these alarming climate figures, global responses remain mixed. While the EU and China show promising reductions in emissions—down 1.6% in China due to a shift towards renewable energy—other regions are experiencing increased fossil fuel reliance. U.S. President Donald Trump’s commitment to fossil fuels has come under scrutiny as severe weather events plague the nation.
Furthermore, the United Nations International Telecommunication Union (ITU) highlights a rise in emissions linked to expanding technology sectors, driven by higher electricity demands from artificial intelligence and data centers.
Responses to climate change persist, with community initiatives like mangrove restoration in the Caribbean taking center stage, underscoring the urgent need for collaborative global action to mitigate the adverse impacts of climate change and safeguard our planet’s future.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image of the presented article.