Context:
2024 has been declared the warmest year on record globally by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), with global temperatures exceeding pre-industrial levels by over 1.5°C. India also experienced significant warming, though its temperature rise was lower compared to the global average. India’s temperature rose by 1.2°C, while global land temperatures increased by approximately 1.6°C or more to the 1901-1910 baseline.
Global vs. India’s Temperature Rise:
India’s temperature rise in 2024 was measured against the 1991-2020 baseline, which shows a 0.65°C increase. Global temperature measurements use the 1850-1900 baseline, which makes direct comparisons difficult. However, when comparing India’s 2024 temperatures to the 1901-1910 baseline, the rise aligns more closely with the global land surface warming at 1.2°C.
Key Reasons behind Lower Warming in India
1. Tropical Location
India lies near the equator, where temperature increases are less pronounced compared to the poles. The Arctic, for instance, has warmed at a rate nearly twice the global average due to heat transfers through atmospheric circulation systems.
2. Polar Amplification
Polar regions experience "polar amplification," where melting ice reduces the Earth’s albedo, causing more sunlight to be absorbed by land and water, accelerating warming. This effect is less significant in India, where tropical climates dominate.
3. Aerosols and Air Pollution
India’s atmosphere contains high levels of aerosols from dust and pollution. These aerosols scatter sunlight, producing a cooling effect that offsets some of the warming. While this offers temporary relief, it negatively impacts air quality and public health.
Regional Variations in Warming Across India
India’s warming is uneven. The Himalayan region has seen rapid warming, with glaciers retreating, while coastal areas are less impacted but still face rising sea levels and changing weather patterns. India remains highly vulnerable to climate change due to its large population and dependence on climate-sensitive sectors like agriculture.
World Meteorological Organization (WMO)
· Specialized UN Agency: WMO is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for meteorology, climate, hydrology, and related geophysical sciences.
History
· Origin: Evolved from the International Meteorological Organization (IMO) founded in 1873.
· Established in 1950: Became the UN's specialized agency for weather, climate, and water-related sciences.
Main Goal
Promote international cooperation in meteorology and exchange of information on weather, climate, and hydrology.
Governance Structure
World Meteorological Congress: Supreme body, meets every 4 years to set policies and adopt regulations.
Executive Council: 36 members, meets annually to implement policies.
Secretariat: Led by a Secretary-General, serves as the administrative center.
Membership
· 193 members: 187 Member States and 6 territories, each with their own meteorological services.
Headquarters
Based in Geneva, Switzerland.
