2024 almost certain to be Earth's hottest year on record

2024 is on track to be the hottest year on record, surpassing 2023, based on data from NASA and the European Copernicus Climate Service. NASA estimates a 99% chance of a new annual record, with September 2024 ranking as the second-warmest September on record. The data analysis was delayed due to Hurricane Helene's impact on NOAA's systems, but NOAA's data is expected to confirm the trend. The record-breaking temperatures reflect the combined influence of natural fluctuations like El Niño and human-caused climate change. Scientists use a 30-year timeframe to study climate change trends, highlighting the significance of these recent observations. The record-breaking temperatures serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing and accelerating climate crisis.