The period from February 2 to February 10, 2025, has been marked by significant developments in environmental and climate news. From alarming studies on global warming thresholds to severe weather events and international climate policy updates, these events underscore the pressing challenges and the need for immediate action to address climate change.
Accelerated Risk of Surpassing 1.5°C Global Warming Threshold – Environmental and Climate
Recent scientific studies have raised concerns that the world may breach the critical 1.5°C global warming limit sooner than previously anticipated. Researchers from Germany and Austria warn that without stringent emission reductions, this threshold could be crossed within the next two decades. Originally projected for around 2045, new models now predict a breach between 2031 and 2034. The continuous emission of greenhouse gases and record-breaking annual temperature increases have led experts to question the feasibility of maintaining global warming within the 1.5°C limit set by the Paris Agreement. These findings, published in the journal Nature, emphasize the urgency for immediate and decisive climate action.
Severe Flooding in North Queensland, Australia – Environmental and Climate
North Queensland has been grappling with severe flooding as Townsville and Ingham brace for up to 300mm of additional rainfall from an approaching storm front. The Bureau of Meteorology has issued warnings of heavy rain and “life-threatening flash flooding.” Record rainfall has already saturated the region, with Townsville experiencing its wettest February on record, receiving 1,033mm in the first week alone. Major flood warnings have been issued for the Herbert, Cape, Upper Burdekin, Haughton, and Flinders Rivers. Over 300 roads are closed, and many residents remain stranded. Singaporean air force helicopters have been delivering essential supplies to cut-off towns, and efforts are ongoing to restore power to affected homes. Despite a forecasted reprieve from the rain, flooding risks persist due to already saturated grounds and ongoing river surges.
Global Inaction: Missing the UN Climate Deadline – Environmental and Climate
A significant number of the world’s largest polluters, including China, India, and the European Union, have missed the United Nations’ deadline to submit new national climate plans under the Paris Agreement. These plans are crucial for outlining strategies to reduce emissions by 2035 to prevent global warming from exceeding 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. While countries like the U.S., Britain, Brazil, Japan, and Canada have announced new plans, the recent U.S. policy reversal under President Donald Trump has contributed to global disruption and delay. The EU and several other nations plan to present their plans later this year, raising concerns about the overall pace and commitment to climate action.
Storm Éowyn’s Aftermath in Ireland – Environmental and Climate
Storm Éowyn has left a lasting impact on Ireland, with significant power outages and infrastructure damage. As of February 2, 2025, ten days after the storm hit, around 39,000 customers remained without electricity. Efforts to restore power have been ongoing, with assistance from technicians from Austria, Finland, France, Great Britain, Germany, the Netherlands, and Norway. Tragically, the storm has been linked to fatalities, including a man whose medical equipment failed due to power outages and a 20-year-old who died when a tree fell on his car. The Department of Social Protection has provided financial assistance to those affected, and discussions are underway to address the challenges faced during the recovery process.
Mumbai’s Rising Temperatures and Deteriorating Air Quality
On February 7, 2025, Mumbai experienced unusually warm weather accompanied by poor air quality. The city’s temperature reached 27.17°C, with humidity at 54% and wind speeds of 54 km/h. The Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 272, categorized as poor. Authorities advised children and individuals with respiratory issues to stay indoors and recommended that others limit outdoor activities. The following day, similar conditions persisted, with a slight drop in temperature but an increase in humidity. These conditions highlight the ongoing environmental challenges faced by urban centers in India.
La Niña Conditions Persisting – Environmental and Climate
As of January 23, 2025, La Niña conditions are present, with a 59% chance of persisting through February to April 2025. There is also a 60% chance of transitioning to ENSO-neutral conditions during March to May 2025. La Niña, characterized by cooler-than-usual ocean temperatures in the central and eastern equatorial Pacific, is linked to a mix of extreme weather events, including devastating floods, droughts, and heightened hurricane activity across the Caribbean. Recent dry weather associated with La Niña has started to impact soybean and corn crops in Argentina, though rain forecasted for mid-January is expected to bring some relief.
Conclusion – Environmental and Climate
The events between February 2 and February 10, 2025, underscore the escalating challenges posed by climate change. The accelerated risk of surpassing critical global warming thresholds, severe weather events, missed international climate commitments, and deteriorating environmental conditions in urban areas all highlight the urgent need for comprehensive and immediate action. Addressing these issues requires global cooperation, stringent policy implementation, and a collective commitment to sustainable practices to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change.
Sources – Environmental and Climate
- “Risk of breach of 1.5C of global warming here sooner than expected, studies find.” Financial Times. https://www.ft.com/content/240a0043-343f-46bb-85ad-d24b44d54db4
- “North Queensland flood warnings upgraded as flood-hit towns face drenching.” The Australian. [https://www.theaustralian.com.au/nation/north-queensland-flood-warnings-upgraded/news-story/a
Source: Economy and Business
