August 2026 Sets New Global Heat Record

Sep 14, 2026

57 min

Sep 14, 2026 00:30

Hottest August ever: Planet shatters records as North America and Western Europe bake in warmest summer on record

## Record-Breaking Heat

August 2026 has been declared the hottest August on record, with global temperatures rising 1.32°C above the 20th-century average. This surpasses previous records set in August 2023 and 2024 by 0.08°C. The Northern Hemisphere also experienced its hottest summer ever.

## Regional Impacts

North America and Western Europe recorded their warmest summers, while Africa experienced its hottest August. Asia had its second-warmest August. The Southern Hemisphere saw near-record warm winter temperatures.

## Ocean and Climate Effects

Global ocean temperatures reached unprecedented levels, influenced by El Niño conditions. This phenomenon contributed to exceptional warmth in the central and eastern tropical Pacific. Land areas also experienced near-record heat.

## Climate Extremes

No region recorded cold temperatures in August. Instead, the month was marked by extreme weather, including heatwaves and heavy storms. Sea ice levels were significantly below average in both the Arctic and Antarctic.

## Long-Term Trends

The pattern of rising temperatures continues, with all ten of the warmest Augusts occurring since 2016. Scientists attribute this trend to greenhouse gas emissions, with El Niño providing a temporary boost. As El Niño strengthens, experts predict ongoing extreme weather conditions.

Read the full story at the source

What you need to know to get Emirates ID?

Leave your details and get a guide as a gift to avoid mistakes

Article contents

LinkedIn X Facebook WhatsApp Telegram