Global temperatures likely to reach record levels in the next five years: PM Modi Urges Citizens To Take Precautions

Global average temperatures are likely to remain at or near record levels over the next five years, according to a report released by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and produced by the UK’s Met Office on Thursday. The report added that Arctic temperature anomalies are expected to continue to remain higher than the global average.

The report stated that although the average temperature over the next five years is likely to exceed 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, this does not constitute a breach of the Paris Agreement, which refers to long-term warming measured over a period of around 20 years.

Annual global mean near-surface temperatures during 2026–2030 are predicted to range between 1.3 and 1.9 degrees Celsius above the 1850–1900 average. According to the report, there is an 86 per cent chance that at least one year between 2026 and 2030 will surpass 2024 as the warmest year on record.

The findings also showed a 91 per cent chance that the global mean near-surface temperature will temporarily exceed 1.5 degrees Celsius above the 1850–1900 average for at least one year between 2026 and 2030. This threshold was also temporarily exceeded in 2024, when the global average surface temperature was around 1.55 degrees Celsius above the pre-industrial baseline.

“There is an El Nino predicted for the end of 2026, which increases the chances of 2027 becoming the next record-breaking year,” said Dr Leon Hermanson, lead author of the report. The five-year predicted average temperature in the central tropical Pacific (Nino 3.4 region) indicates a tendency towards El Nino conditions, particularly in 2027 and 2028.

Under the Paris Agreement, countries agreed to keep the rise in long-term global average surface temperature well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, while pursuing efforts to limit the increase to 1.5 degrees Celsius. The scientific community has repeatedly warned that warming beyond 1.5 degrees Celsius could trigger increasingly severe climate impacts and extreme weather events, while also reducing adaptation options.

PM Modi Urges Citizens To Take Precautions Amid Soaring Temperatures Across India

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday urged citizens across the country to take necessary precautions amid the intense heatwave conditions being witnessed in several parts of India. In a series of posts on X, the Prime Minister appealed to people to stay hydrated, carry water while stepping outdoors and extend help to others during the harsh weather conditions.

“Different parts of India are witnessing soaring temperatures and the challenges that come with it. This heat is harsh on all of us and I urge you all to take as many precautions as possible. Please stay hydrated, keep water with you when stepping out. Offer a glass of water to others. In weather like this, such kindness goes a long way,” PM Modi said. The Prime Minister also advised people to remain alert to signs of heat exhaustion, including dizziness, nausea and extreme fatigue.

He said that if someone feels unusually weak, unwell or develops a headache, they should immediately be moved to a cool and shaded place and provided with water or Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS). “Children, the elderly and those working outdoors are especially vulnerable during extreme heat. Ignoring these warning signs can quickly turn dangerous and may even lead to heatstroke. In such weather, timely care and attention go a long way,” he added.

PM Modi further urged citizens to regularly check on near and dear ones during the ongoing heatwave. “Whenever possible, call and check on elderly parents, grandparents and loved ones during this heatwave. Remind them to stay hydrated, avoid stepping out in peak afternoon hours and take rest whenever possible,” he said.

Emphasising compassion towards animals and birds during extreme weather conditions, the Prime Minister said, “In this extreme heat, let us also remember the birds and animals around us. A small bowl of water kept outside your home, balconies, terraces, shops or offices can become a lifeline for a thirsty bird. May compassion guide us in these difficult days.” Several parts of the country, including north and central India, have been witnessing severe heatwave conditions in recent days, with temperatures hovering around 45 degrees Celsius in some regions.