August 2026 becomes warmest month on record — global mean 16.96°C
Copernicus: August global mean temperature 16.96°C, 1.65°C above pre‑industrial levels; scientists cite long‑term warming and a strong El Niño.
August 2026 has been recorded as the warmest month on Earth to date, the Copernicus climate service reported, with a global mean temperature of 16.96 degrees Celsius — 1.65 °C above pre‑industrial levels.
Why scientists are alarmed
Copernicus said the August figure practically matched the previous monthly record set in July 2023 and that the oceans also tied their hottest monthly record in August. Experts warn that such new highs are becoming more frequent and are already affecting daily life through heatwaves, wildfires, floods and disruptions to transport.
Researchers link the extreme warmth to a combination of long‑term human‑driven global warming and a strong El Niño event. At the same time, they stress that most of the increase in global temperatures stems from greenhouse‑gas emissions caused by burning coal, oil and natural gas.
The agency and climate scientists say the pattern of record months is consistent with expectations from rising emissions and natural climate variability. August’s data, they add, underline growing risks for vulnerable communities and critical infrastructure.
Based on current estimates, 2026 could become the warmest year on record, and projections indicate 2027 may exceed that level further if current trends persist.
Photo: press material from the event
