Global oceans experienced their hottest July on record, a phenomenon partly attributed to the development of El Niño conditions. This surge in ocean temperatures occurs against a backdrop of human-induced warming, primarily driven by the burning of fossil fuels.
The world's average temperature is now approximately 1.4 degrees Celsius warmer than it was in the late 19th century. Scientists anticipate that El Niño could temporarily elevate global temperatures even further.
"We are right now living in a time of historic and unprecedented change," said Mike Kendon, a Met Office climate information scientist. "Evidence shows the climate of the 20th century has now gone." The Met Office's latest assessment indicates that the hottest day of the year in southern England is now 4.5C warmer than it was between 1961 and 1990.
This warming trend is contributing to extreme weather events globally. In the United Kingdom, prolonged dry spells have intensified pressure on water supplies. England and Wales recorded their driest July in 190 years, leading to official drought declarations in large parts of England and all of Wales. The Environment Agency has cautioned that more areas could be declared in drought if dry conditions persist.
"Weather that was once considered extreme is becoming the 'new normal', according to the latest Met Office report on the UK's climate."
Wildfires have also continued to ravage parts of western Europe, exacerbated by the high temperatures and dry conditions.