European Union scientists say 2025 may rank as the world’s second or third hottest year, marking three consecutive years above 1.5°C over pre-industrial levels and highlighting the accelerating impacts of climate change

Across Europe, August’s heat was relentless. Spain endured a record 16-day heatwave, the longest in its history, which health officials estimate contributed to more than 1,100 excess deaths.

For the first time, global temperature increases are anticipated to surpass the 1.5°C threshold, compared to the pre-industrial levels.