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Global Temperature Rise in 2024

The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has declared 2024 as the hottest year in recorded history, adding a dark red stripe to its climate visualization. This follows the record-breaking heat of 2023. Based on six international datasets, 2024 marks the first time the global average temperature exceeded 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. According to UN Secretary-General Antóno Guterres, "global heating is a cold, hard fact."

Temperature Records in India

• The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) reported 2024 as the warmest year in India since 1901, with the average minimum temperature 0.90°C above the long-term average.
• The annual mean temperature was 25.75°C, 0.65°C above the long-term average, the highest since 1901.
• The average maximum temperature was 31.25°C, 0.20°C above normal, the fourth highest since 1901.

Impact of Temperature Rise

• Economically vulnerable groups such as farmers and fishermen face severe effects from intense heat and extreme weather events.
• India's rice and wheat output might decrease by 6-10% due to climate change.
• A report indicates a possible 5-10% reduction in overall wheat production.
• More than 50% of marginal farmers reported losing half their crops due to extreme weather conditions.
• Heat increases spoilage of agricultural produce, with low cold storage facilities exacerbating the situation.
• Production of certain fish species and labor capacity in agriculture expected to decline.
• 360 heatstroke deaths reported in India, with independent surveys suggesting higher numbers.
• Extreme weather leads to various health issues, including waterborne and vector-borne diseases.

Cooling Causes Warming

• India's power demand surged due to increased use of air conditioning. AC ownership tripled since 2010.
• Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) used in coolants are depleting the ozone layer, despite India's commitment to phase down HFCs.

Adapting to Climate Realities

• India targets net carbon zero by 2070 with a green energy goal of 500 GW by 2030.
• The National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) aims to make socio-economic sectors climate resilient.
• Efforts include climate-resistant agriculture and clean energy deployment, achieving 200 GW of installed capacity.
• State-level action plans face challenges; however, some states are proactive with new initiatives.

Challenges and Future Directions

• Urban areas experience temperatures 5°C to 10°C higher than surrounding regions, increasing heatwave risks.
• Climate Action Tracker rates India's climate action as "highly insufficient."
• Heat Action Plans (HAPs) require improvement for effective heat-related impact management.

Conclusion

2024's unprecedented heat underscores the urgent need for global and local climate action. India's proactive measures are commendable, yet challenges remain, requiring robust policy implementation and adaptation strategies. ```