The World Meteorological Organization warns Earth’s climate is more out of balance than ever, with a record energy imbalance driven by greenhouse gas emissions.
Global average temperatures in 2025 reached 1.43°C above pre-industrial levels-making the last 11 years the warmest on record. Ocean heat in the upper 2km hit a new high, warming over twice as fast as in the late 20th century.
More than 90% of excess heat is absorbed by oceans, accelerating ice loss and intensifying storms. Glaciers had one of their worst years in 2024/25, while polar sea ice remained near record lows throughout 2025.
UN Secretary General António Guterres urged a rapid shift from fossil fuels to renewables, warning: "Planet Earth is being pushed beyond its limits."
Scientists now fear that an impending El Niño phase-expected in late 2026-could trigger new global temperature records into 2027.
The WMO stresses human activities have disrupted natural equilibrium, with impacts lasting for centuries.
