A recent report by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has revealed that Asia is heating up nearly twice as fast as the global average, raising serious concerns about climate change impacts in the region. The report, titled The State of the Climate in Asia 2024, highlights increasing heatwaves, heavy rains, droughts, and rapidly melting glaciers affecting millions.
According to the report, 2024 is one of the hottest years on record, with extreme heatwaves almost doubling in intensity compared to the 1961-1990 period. Rising temperatures have caused significant changes in rainfall patterns, with some areas like the Russian Far East and parts of Mongolia experiencing notable drops in precipitation.
Sea surface temperatures around Asia have also reached record highs, increasing nearly twice as fast as the global average. Coastal regions along the Pacific and Indian Oceans are especially vulnerable due to rising sea levels, which threaten millions living near shorelines with flooding and erosion.
The report also highlights glacier shrinkage as a growing threat. In the Central Himalayas and Tian Shan mountains, 23 out of 24 glaciers have lost volume, increasing risks of glacial lake outbursts, landslides, and long-term water shortages for local communities.
Severe rains and storms in 2024 caused devastating floods and loss of life across several countries, while droughts led to major economic and agricultural damage. WMO Secretary-General Petteri Taalas emphasized that extreme weather events are already causing unacceptable harm, urging stronger efforts to protect lives and livelihoods.
The report includes a case study from Nepal showing how early warning systems and proactive measures can help communities prepare for climate risks. Overall, Asia’s rapid warming demands urgent action to safeguard the environment, economies, and people across this vast and diverse region.