The United Nations has reported that the world is significantly off track in meeting the climate goals set by the 2015 Paris Agreement, with current policies risking severe setbacks in development.

Human-induced climate change has resulted in increasingly frequent and severe heat waves, a trend that has been particularly evident in 2024.

Cities around the globe are facing longer, more intense heat waves, exacerbated by rising temperatures attributed to climate change.

To keep global warming below 2°C, greenhouse gas emissions must be reduced by 28% by 2030 from current projections, with even steeper cuts of 42% needed to limit warming to 1.5°C.

The urgency for immediate and ambitious climate action is underscored by the potential for devastating impacts if current trends continue.

Experts emphasize that the difference between a 1.5°C and a 3°C increase in global temperatures could have life-or-death implications for billions of people.

A recent study highlights climate risks affecting nearly 1,000 major cities, home to 2.1 billion people, which represents 26% of the global population.

While new technologies can offer significant benefits for climate action, the World Meteorological Organization warns of their high energy consumption and calls for regulations to maximize their positive impact.

Advancements in space-based Earth observations present opportunities for effective climate monitoring, necessitating collaboration between public and private sectors.

In Johannesburg, the demand for air conditioning could surge by 69% at a 3°C increase compared to 1.5°C, further straining water and electricity resources.

The ongoing changes in weather patterns due to climate change are expected to have significant implications for public health, property, and ecosystems worldwide.

Rapid advancements in artificial intelligence and machine learning could revolutionize weather forecasting and enhance society's ability to respond to climate-related challenges.