
The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has released a concerning report titled “State of the Climate in Asia 2024,” revealing that Asia is warming at nearly twice the rate of the global average. In 2024, the continent’s average temperature was approximately 1.04°C higher than the 1991–2020 average.
Key Findings from the WMO Report
- Asia is experiencing prolonged heatwaves and extreme weather events.
- Several countries, including China, have continuously broken historical temperature records.
- The rapid warming is threatening economies, ecosystems, and societies.
- Risks such as heat stress, water shortages, and agricultural damage are intensifying.
Implications for the Region
With around 60% of the global population residing in Asia, the consequences of this warming trend are profound. The report emphasizes that millions of lives will be affected through:
- Health impacts due to heightened heat stress.
- Threats to food security from damaged agriculture.
- Damage to critical infrastructure.
- Increased water scarcity.
Urgent Call to Action
The WMO urges Asian nations to strengthen regional cooperation to mitigate warming effects and adopt sustainable practices. Immediate and coordinated action is essential to:
- Combat global warming.
- Implement adaptive measures for vulnerable communities.
- Protect ecosystems and economies from ongoing climate threats.
This report is a crucial alarm highlighting the need for fast and decisive climate action in Asia to secure a safer future for the region and the world.