MARRAKECH: Phalodi in Rajasthan saw temperatures touching a national record of 51 degrees Celsius in May this year, the world meteorological body today said and asserted that it is “very likely” that 2016 will be the hottest year on record.
The World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) assessment which was released here today in this Moroccan city said that 2016’s global temperatures are approximately 1.2 degree Celsius above pre-industrial levels.
WMO said that there is a “great need” to strengthen the disaster early warning and climate service capabilities of “especially developing countries”.
The report assumes significance as more than 100 countries have ratified the Paris Agreement reached last year which aims at limiting the global temperature increase to well below two degree Celsius and pursuing efforts towards 1.5 degree Celsius above pre-industrial levels.
“There were a number of major heatwaves during 2016. The year started with an extreme heatwave in southern Africa, exacerbated by the ongoing drought. Many stations set all-time records, including 42.7°C at Pretoria and 38.9°C at Johannesburg on 7 January.
“Thailand saw a national record of 44.6°C on April 28. Phalodi saw a new record for India of 51.0°C on May 19,” WMO said.
The report was released at the Conference of Parties (CoP22) which is taking place here from November 7-18 where nations will continue their work on strengthening the global response to the threat of climate change. (AGENCIES)
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