Record-Breaking Heat: July 21 Marks Hottest Day Ever Recorded Globally

Sunday, July 21 was the hottest day ever recorded globally, with a temperature of 17.09 degrees Celsius. The previous record was set last July at 17.08 degrees Celsius. Heatwaves have affected large parts of the United States, Europe, and Russia recently, and experts warn that 2024 could be even hotter.

Sunday, July 21, has been confirmed as the hottest day ever recorded globally, according to preliminary data from the European Union's Copernicus Climate Change Service.

The global average surface air temperature reached 17.09 degrees Celsius (62.76 degrees Fahrenheit), surpassing last July's record of 17.08 degrees Celsius (62.74 degrees Fahrenheit). Extensive heatwaves have gripped the United States, Europe, and Russia over the past week.

Copernicus verified to Reuters that this new record continues the trend witnessed last year when four consecutive days in July broke previous records. Driven by fossil fuel combustion and climate change, extreme heat persists across the Northern Hemisphere.

Every month since June 2023 has been the hottest on record for its corresponding month. As climate change and the El Nino phenomenon elevate temperatures, 2024 might surpass 2023 as the hottest year on record.

(With inputs from agencies.)