Europe is facing an unprecedented climate crisis as it has been named the fastest-warming continent in the world, according to the latest UN-led European State of the Climate 2024 report. The findings, compiled by the EU’s Copernicus Climate Change Service and the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), highlight a year marked by extreme weather events, record temperatures, and widespread flooding.
Record-Breaking Temperatures and Extreme Weather
The report reveals that 2024 was the warmest year on record for Europe, with temperatures rising at twice the global average. This warming trend has led to more frequent and severe heatwaves, particularly in central, eastern, and southeastern regions. In fact, nearly half of the continent experienced record-high annual temperatures, and the Mediterranean Sea saw its warmest year with an average temperature increase of 1.2°C above average.
Devastating Floods and Storms
Europe also faced its most extensive flooding since 2013, with at least 335 lives lost and over 413,000 people affected. The impact of these floods was particularly severe in central and eastern Europe, where rivers like the Thames in the UK and the Loire in France recorded flow rates not seen in decades. In Spain, extreme precipitation in October led to devastating floods in Valencia and neighboring regions, claiming at least 232 lives.
Wildfires and Glacial Melt
Wildfires also wreaked havoc across the continent, with blazes in Portugal burning around 110,000 hectares of land in just one week. This represented a quarter of Europe’s total annual burnt area for 2024. Meanwhile, glaciers in Scandinavia and Svalbard experienced their highest rates of mass loss on record.
East-West Climate Divide
The report highlights a striking east-west divide in climate conditions. While the eastern parts of Europe suffered from extreme heat and drought, the western regions experienced warm but wet conditions. This divide underscores the complexity of Europe’s climate challenges and the need for region-specific adaptation strategies.
Urgent Call for Climate Resilience
The findings of the European State of the Climate 2024 report underscore the urgent need for increased climate resilience. With Europe projected to see a significant rise in flood risk, and a potential 30,000 annual deaths due to extreme heat if global warming reaches 1.5°C, the stakes are high. WMO Secretary-General Celeste Saulo emphasized that “every additional fraction of a degree of temperature rise matters” and called for the strengthening of early warning systems and climate services.