During a recent news briefing, U.N. Chief António Guterres issued a powerful warning about climate change, stating that the era of global warming has now transitioned into what he called the era of “global boiling.” This declaration coincided with scientific confirmation that July was the hottest month ever recorded on Earth.

At the U.N. headquarters in New York, Guterres emphasized the terrifying reality of climate change, recounting distressing scenes of children swept away by monsoon rains, families fleeing from wildfires, and workers succumbing to scorching heat. He backed up his warnings with data showing that July has experienced unprecedented heatwaves, with the hottest three-week period, the three hottest days, and the highest-ever ocean temperatures for this time of year.

Guterres’ use of the term “global boiling” has generated considerable interest and discussion. While some scientists argue that it is not a scientifically recognized term, others find it relevant and necessary to capture the gravity of the situation. 

Piers Forster, a professor of climate physics, believes that although Guterres aims to draw attention to the crisis, some of his statements may veer away from solid scientific evidence, potentially reducing their long-term credibility.

However, many experts assert that the extreme changes in climate align with predictions made decades ago. They argue that the urgency of the situation demands varied communication approaches to ensure the public understands the severity of the climate crisis. Sonia I. Seneviratne, a professor of land-climate dynamics, acknowledges the usefulness of terms like “code red for humanity” in highlighting the issue but suggests that, at some point, language may fall short in conveying the pressing need for action.

Suraje Dessai, a professor of climate change adaptation, supports the idea of diversifying communication methods to underscore the urgency of the situation. He explains that the term “global boiling” could be particularly relevant in regions where both temperature and humidity increase significantly, leading to life-threatening conditions due to the body’s inability to regulate heat. Such conditions are already prevalent in parts of the Middle East and may spread further in the future.

While some climate events, like warming oceans and sea ice reduction, seem to be unfolding faster than anticipated, others, such as heatwaves, have long been predicted. The challenge lies in ensuring that the general public grasps the magnitude of the current climate crisis and the imperative for immediate action. As global temperatures continue to rise, it is evident that the world needs to address the climate emergency collectively and urgently.

Source: The Washington Post