Climate Change Accelerating Faster Than Previously Estimated

---

Climate Change Accelerating Faster Than Previously Estimated

Recent scientific findings indicate that climate change is progressing at a more rapid pace than earlier projections suggested, raising concerns about the urgency of mitigation efforts.

Accelerated Warming Trends

A study published in Earth System Science Data reports that global temperatures are now increasing at a rate of 0.26°C per decade—a record high. This acceleration surpasses previous estimates and underscores the intensifying nature of global warming.

Further emphasizing this trend, data from the University of Texas at Austin reveals that the 12-month average global temperature through April 2025 reached 1.58°C above pre-industrial levels. This figure exceeds the 1.5°C threshold set by the Paris Agreement, highlighting the escalating challenge of limiting global warming. Financial Times

Contributing Factors

Several factors contribute to this accelerated warming. A significant reduction in sulfur aerosols—particles that previously helped cool the Earth by reflecting sunlight—has unveiled the full extent of greenhouse gas-induced warming. This change has led to a more pronounced increase in global temperatures.

Impacts on Natural Systems

The rapid warming has tangible effects on natural systems. In the Hindu Kush Himalaya region, the Yala glacier has lost significant mass and is now considered "dead," no longer moving under its own weight. This retreat threatens water security for nearly two billion people who rely on glacial meltwate

In the United States, a severe storm in April 2025, intensified by climate change, resulted in catastrophic flooding and tornadoes, causing 24 deaths. The storm's severity was linked to warmer Gulf of Mexico waters, a consequence of global warming.