Global Surface Air Temperature Reaches Record High

The global average surface air temperature reached a record-breaking 17.09°C on July 21, surpassing the previous record of 17.08°C set in July last year. This extreme heat event occurred after a week of scorching temperatures in southern Europe, with Greece reaching 43°C and wildfires spreading across Portugal. California is also experiencing its second heatwave this month, with temperatures forecast to reach 51°C in Death Valley. Some scientists predict that 2024 could surpass 2023 as the hottest year on record.