Global heatwave and the urgency to addressing climate change

The United Nations’ chief, António Guterres, has issued a dire warning on climate change, stating that the era of global warming has ended, and the era of global boiling has begun.

The increasing temperatures have led to extreme heatwaves across the globe, setting alarming records and posing severe threats to humanity and the environment. In this article, we explore the implications of the term “global boiling” and the urgent need for action to combat the climate crisis.

A new study by scientists from five prominent American universities in the scientific journal PNAS paints that terrifying picture of what we can expect over the next few decades- at least a fifth of the planet will witness boiling heatwaves, droughts and people will struggle to breathe as the air is filled with smoke.

This is expected to happen twice a year lasting at least 25 days each. The scientists say the recent weather events we are all seeing are actually just the beginning.

Unprecedented Heatwaves

July is set to become Earth’s hottest month on record, confirming the alarming trend of rising temperatures. The impacts of climate change are already visible, with severe consequences observed worldwide. The UN chief’s speech described distressing scenes of children swept away by monsoon rains, families fleeing from wildfires, and workers succumbing to scorching heat.

A fog cannon truck sprays water to cool citizens on Zhonghua Street in Handan, North China's Hebei province, July 6, 2023.

Extreme heatwaves have far-reaching consequences, adversely affecting economies, infrastructure, livestock, water supply, electricity, and food availability. Reports indicate that extreme heat has already dampened economic growth in Europe. Urgent, coordinated efforts are necessary to protect communities and economies from further damage.

Pedestrians along a road during high temperatures in Patna, Bihar, India, on Thursday, June 22, 2023

Global Boiling: A Term of Contention

While the term “global boiling” has been gaining attention, scientists are divided on its use. Some argue that it lacks scientific precision, though they understand the need for striking language to raise awareness. Climate physicist Piers Forster emphasizes the importance of governments taking climate change seriously and making it a top priority. However, he cautions that departure from scientific evidence may undermine credibility and desensitize the public to the severity of the crisis.

“The evidence is everywhere: humanity has unleashed destruction.

This must not inspire despair, but action.”

As @WMO data confirms July 2023 will be the hottest month ever recorded, @antonioguterres calls for dramatic, immediate #ClimateAction. https://t.co/afOlidfVFh pic.twitter.com/w0YDJouuwX

— United Nations (@UN) July 27, 2023

The Role of Language in Conveying Urgency

The United Nations has previously coined phrases like “code red for humanity” to underscore the urgency of the climate crisis. Such language aims to capture the gravity of the situation and mobilize action. Professor Sonia I. Seneviratne acknowledges the value of using impactful terms but suggests that at some point, words may no longer suffice in conveying the true urgency of the current climate crisis.

Understanding Global Boiling

Professor Suraje Dessai highlights the importance of diverse communication methods to help the public comprehend the urgency of climate change. Global boiling can be relevant in areas where both temperatures and humidity significantly increase, affecting human health and mortality. Locations like the Middle East, Pakistan, and India may experience conditions where the human body’s ability to cool down through sweating becomes compromised.

Even the cover-up artist government climate change agencies are now admitting we are over 1.5 degree threshold for abrupt, irreversible climate change: the new dire report stating July 2023 is set to be the 'hottest month on record' pic.twitter.com/4c4sJXeT5i

— Chris Turnbull (@EnemyInAState) July 29, 2023

Accelerated Climate Change Impacts

Some climate events, like warming oceans and reduced sea ice, are occurring faster than expected, indicating that the world needs to brace for unprecedented challenges. Extreme heatwaves were predicted decades ago, and now they are becoming a regular reality. Urgent action is essential to mitigate the impacts.

Combining Individual and Government Efforts

Addressing climate change requires collective action from both individuals and governments. Professor Dessai emphasizes the importance of investing in societal preparedness for climate change, such as heatwaves, droughts, and rising sea levels. While individual efforts to reduce carbon footprints are significant, systemic changes, such as laws and infrastructure transformations, are also crucial in tackling the crisis.

The Urgency of the Climate Emergency

A recent study warns that a significant portion of the planet will witness boiling heatwaves and droughts, resulting in prolonged periods of intense heat and smoke-filled air. The current extreme weather events are only the beginning, and the situation will worsen if immediate action is not taken. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change emphasizes the need for urgent, effective measures to prevent global temperatures from exceeding the 1.5-degree Celsius threshold.

Global boiling represents a climate emergency of unprecedented proportions, with extreme heatwaves impacting people, economies, and the environment worldwide. Urgent action is required on individual, national, and international levels to combat climate change and mitigate its devastating effects. The time to act is now, and we must collectively address this crisis before it reaches irreversible levels. Only through unified efforts can we protect our planet and secure a sustainable future for generations to come.