Photo by WMO. The area of Arctic ice after this year's winter reached the lowest level in the history of satellite observations
From the beginning of the year until August 2025, the average temperature on the planet's surface was 1.42 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. Although this figure is slightly lower than in 2024, when the influence of El Niño was more pronounced, the overall warming trend remains unchanged.
The period from June 2023 to August 2025 has been record-breaking in terms of temperature, with the exception of February of this year. Scientists believe that the cause of such high temperatures is due to both natural cycles and anthropogenic factors, particularly the increase in aerosol emissions that contribute to global warming.
The oceans continue to absorb heat, with more than 90% of the excess energy from greenhouse gases being absorbed by them. This negatively impacts marine ecosystems, intensifies storms, and accelerates glacier melting.
After the winter of 2025, the area of Arctic ice reached a record low in the history of satellite observations. In Antarctica, the situation also raises serious concerns: this year marks the third largest level of ice loss on record.
Global glaciers continue to lose mass, a trend that has persisted for three consecutive years. Estimates show that in 2023/2024, they lost 450 gigatons of ice, corresponding to a sea level rise of 1.2 millimeters.
Concentrations of carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide in the atmosphere reached record levels last year and continue to rise. The level of CO₂ has increased by 53% compared to the pre-industrial era, with the increase over the past year being the most significant in recorded history.
In 2025, the world faced devastating floods in Africa and Asia, wildfires in Europe and North America, as well as deadly tropical cyclones. These climate events have taken a significant toll on the economy, food security, and led to mass population displacements.
