Al Jazeera’s analysis of 20 years of climate data from over 1,200 cities worldwide reveals alarming trends in global temperature rise. The hottest June on record in 2024 marks the 13th consecutive month of heat records being broken. Heatwaves are becoming more frequent, with cities experiencing more days above 50 degrees Celsius (122 degrees Fahrenheit).
The data shows that the highest temperatures over the past two decades were recorded in just five cities in four countries across the Middle East: Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia. These cities, located along the Tropic of Cancer, consistently experience extreme heat due to their desert location and proximity to sea level.
Iran’s Ahvaz has recorded the highest temperature seven times in the last 20 years, often exceeding 50C. Cities like Basra in Iraq have also seen extremely high temperatures, with some recording over 50 days above 50C.
The analysis also highlights cities across the globe that have experienced temperatures of 50C or above in the past two decades, shedding light on the increasing frequency of extreme heat events. Al Jazeera’s infographic series allows readers to explore how their own cities compare to others in terms of temperature ranges.
As climate change continues to worsen, it is vital for policymakers and individuals to take action to mitigate its impacts. The alarming trends revealed in this data serve as a stark reminder of the urgent need for global action to address the climate crisis.
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Photo credit www.aljazeera.com
