New analyses from the Copernicus Climate Change Service and the World Meteorological Organization show global temperatures are close to the 1.5°C threshold in the Paris Agreement. Copernicus reports 2025 global surface air temperature at 1.47°C above pre‑industrial times and finds the 2023–2025 average exceeded 1.5°C, with 2024 at 1.6°C and 2023 at 1.48°C.
The WMO released a consolidated analysis of eight datasets and placed 2025 at 1.44°C above the 1850–1900 average, with an uncertainty of 0.13°C. Its three‑year average for 2023–2025 was 1.48°C, using the same uncertainty. Copernicus combines observations, satellite data and computer models, while some other datasets rely on weather stations, ships and buoys.
WMO secretary‑general Celeste Saulo noted that 2025 began and ended with a cooling La Niña but remained one of the warmest years because greenhouse gases have accumulated. Copernicus now says the 1.5°C threshold could be reached much earlier than before, and experts warn of more extreme events such as Hurricane Melissa, drought in Brazil, and floods in Colombia and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Difficult words
- threshold — a limit or point that marks change
- average — a typical value calculated from several numbers
- uncertainty — not knowing exact value or measurement range
- observation — information collected by watching or measuringobservations
- greenhouse gas — a gas that traps heat in the atmospheregreenhouse gases
- dataset — a collection of related data or measurementsdatasets
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- How could reaching the 1.5°C threshold affect people in your community? Give one example.
- Which of the extreme events mentioned (hurricane, drought, floods) worries you most, and why?
- What local actions could help reduce greenhouse gas accumulation where you live?
Related articles
Targeted climate finance brings results in Benin, Ethiopia and Namibia
A February report by Global Health Strategies and the African Union Commission finds that targeted climate adaptation finance delivered measurable benefits in Benin, Ethiopia and Namibia, improving flood protection, roads, market access and local decision-making.
Scientists Watch El Niño's Effect on Weather and Hurricanes
Scientists are watching El Niño because it can change weather globally and affect the Atlantic hurricane season. Many forecast models now see an increased chance of El Niño later this year, but its effect will depend on timing and ocean temperatures.
Soil carbon breaks down at very different rates across the US
A study finds that soil carbon decomposition rates across the United States can vary greatly. Researchers used lab incubations, machine learning and mapping to show regional differences and implications for climate models.
