WMO and Copernicus confirm July 2023 as hottest month ever recorded

The World Meteorological Organization and the EU's Copernicus Climate Change Service reported that July 2023 was set to be the hottest month ever recorded, with global mean temperature temporarily exceeding the 1.5C threshold during parts of the month. The data intensifies pressure on G20 nations, including India, to deliver ambitious emissions-reduction and adaptation measures.

The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and the European Commission's Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S) reported that July 2023 was set to be the hottest month ever recorded. According to ERA5 data, the global average temperature exceeded the previous record set in July 2019, and July 6 became the hottest day on record. The first and third weeks of July temporarily exceeded the critical 1.5C threshold above preindustrial levels. Heatwaves swept North America, Asia, and Europe, with temperatures surpassing 100F in US states and exceeding 120F in parts of India and Pakistan.

The record heat affects governments, businesses, and communities globally, with the article noting India and Pakistan facing extreme heat exceeding 120F and rising electricity demand for air conditioning that risks blackouts in densely populated centres. UN Secretary-General Guterres stressed that G20 countries, responsible for 80% of global emissions, must act. For India, a G20 member and major emerging economy, the data heightens expectations for ambitious national emissions targets, renewable-energy acceleration, and adaptation investment to protect vulnerable populations and strained power grids.

Guterres called for ambitious national emissions-reduction targets, net-zero by 2050 for emerging economies, accelerated renewable-energy adoption, and credible transition plans, pointing to the Africa Climate Summit, G20 Summit, UN Climate Ambition Summit, and COP28 as critical opportunities. Indian policymakers, businesses, and financial institutions should monitor these forums and the $100 billion annual climate-finance commitment to developing countries. The article also urges investment in adaptation such as early-warning systems and climate-resilient infrastructure to build resilience against intensifying extreme weather.

Key figure — G20 emissions share: G20 countries responsible for 80% of global emissions