Last year’s Temperature Record, Devastating Hurricanes, and Warning Signs for the Climate Crisis
The United States experienced a record-breaking high temperature last year, with an average annual temperature of 55.5 degrees Fahrenheit, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The 2021 average temperature was 3.5 degrees above the average temperature of the lower 48 states and Washington.
In addition to record-breaking temperatures, the United States was pummeled by a series of devastating weather events, including hurricanes, wildfires, and tornadoes. Hurricane Helene was the second-deadliest hurricane to hit the US mainland in more than 50 years, causing widespread destruction and loss of life.
Wildfires scorched over 8.8 million acres, making 2021 the third-worst year for wildfires in US history. Tornadoes were also a significant concern, with over 1,700 recorded events, second only to the year 2004.
Globally, 2024 has been confirmed as the hottest year on record by the European Commission’s Copernicus Climate Change Service, surpassing the previous record of 2023. This milestone has significant implications for the global climate crisis, with temperatures rising at an alarming rate.
In light of these devastating weather events and record-breaking temperatures, President-elect Donald Trump’s plans to expand fossil fuel production and roll back green policies have raised concerns about the US response to the climate crisis. Trump has vowed to prioritize domestic fossil fuel production over international cooperation to address global warming.
Meanwhile, environmental advocates argue that the United States must take immediate action to reduce its carbon emissions and transition to cleaner energy sources in order to meet its climate goals under the Paris agreement. However, the latest figures from the Rhodium Group suggest that the country is struggling to make significant progress, with US greenhouse gas emissions dipping by only 0.2% last year.
The warning signs for the climate crisis are clear: record-breaking temperatures, devastating weather events, and a looming environmental disaster that demands immediate action from world leaders.
