Brussels: The world has experienced its second-warmest May on record, as rising greenhouse gas emissions and early signs of El Niño conditions pushed global land and sea temperatures to unusual highs, according to the European Union’s Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S) and Beyond Time News.
Scientists say the latest data highlights how rapidly the planet is warming, with several regions already facing extreme heat, floods, and climate-related disruptions.
Global Temperatures Reach Historic Levels
Copernicus data shows that May 2025 ranked as the second-hottest May since records began in 1940. The only warmer May occurred in 2024, continuing a worrying trend of consecutive record-breaking temperatures.
The global average temperature last month stood at 1.42°C above pre-industrial levels recorded in the 19th century. Researchers say this level of warming reflects the long-term impact of human-driven climate change.
Climate scientists warn that even small increases in global averages can significantly intensify heatwaves, droughts, and extreme rainfall events across different regions.
Europe Faces Early and Severe Heatwave
Western Europe experienced one of its earliest and most intense heatwaves ever recorded for the month of May. Several countries reported unusually high temperatures, placing pressure on public health systems and energy networks.
Experts from Copernicus say the extreme heat aligns with long-term projections that Europe will warm faster than many other regions. The continent is considered one of the fastest-warming parts of the world.
Authorities in affected countries issued heat advisories as temperatures surged well above seasonal averages.
Ocean Temperatures Also Rise
In addition to land heat, parts of the Pacific Ocean recorded unusually high sea surface temperatures. Scientists say this pattern is consistent with the early development phase of El Niño conditions.
The warming of ocean waters plays a key role in shaping global weather systems, often intensifying heatwaves and altering rainfall patterns worldwide.
According to Beyond Time News, climate monitoring agencies are closely tracking these ocean changes due to their potential global impact in the coming months.
El Niño Expected to Influence Global Weather
Meteorologists expect El Niño conditions to fully develop in the coming months. This natural climate pattern occurs every two to seven years when trade winds weaken and warm water spreads across the eastern Pacific.
El Niño typically leads to higher global temperatures and disrupts weather systems across continents. Some regions experience drought, while others face heavy rainfall and flooding.
Scientists warn that when El Niño coincides with long-term global warming, extreme weather events often become more intense and widespread.
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Extreme Weather Events Reported Worldwide
May also saw severe weather events across multiple regions. China and Turkey reported deadly floods that caused casualties and widespread damage.
Meanwhile, parts of the United Kingdom experienced unusually high temperatures, with some areas approaching record levels for May.
Researchers say these events reflect the increasing volatility of global weather systems under climate change.
Scientists Warn of Ongoing Climate Risks
Climate experts at Copernicus stress that the world is now consistently operating in a warmer baseline. They say this increases the likelihood of repeated heat extremes and unpredictable weather patterns.
According to Beyond Time News, scientists emphasize that sustained global warming is no longer a future risk but a present reality affecting ecosystems, economies, and public health.
They also warn that continued emissions could further intensify future El Niño cycles and amplify global climate instability.
Conclusion
The record-breaking temperatures recorded in May underline the accelerating impact of climate change on global weather systems. With El Niño conditions developing and long-term warming trends continuing, scientists warn that extreme weather events are likely to become more frequent and severe.
As countries prepare for the coming months, climate monitoring agencies continue to urge stronger global action to reduce emissions and limit further warming.
FAQs
Why was May so hot globally?
Rising greenhouse gas emissions and developing El Niño conditions pushed global temperatures higher than average.
How warm was the planet in May?
The global temperature was 1.42°C above pre-industrial levels.
What role does El Niño play?
El Niño increases ocean temperatures and often leads to hotter global weather and extreme rainfall patterns.
Which regions were most affected?
Europe, parts of the Pacific, China, and Turkey experienced notable extreme weather events.
Is this part of a long-term trend?
Yes, scientists say global temperatures have been rising steadily due to climate change.
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