Why 2025 Was So Unexpectedly Warm and What to Expect in 2026

The last three years have been the warmest in history, with 2025 recorded almost on par with 2023 in second place. Factors such as La Niña and reduced solar activity should have led to a decrease in temperature, but this did not happen.

Dr. Michael Wysession, Professor of Geological, Environmental, and Planetary Sciences, explains that anthropogenic warming is now so strong that natural fluctuations have little effect. Greenhouse gas emissions continue to rise, trapping heat in the atmosphere for years.

In addition, the Earth absorbs more energy than it emits, while the loss of sea ice reduces the reflection of solar radiation. The reduction of sulfur emissions, for health reasons, also results in less 'artificial shade' over the planet.

2026 started with high temperatures. Projections depend on the El Niño phenomenon. If El Niño conditions return, there is a 60% chance of another very warm year. Dr. Wysession emphasizes that the increase in renewable energy sources must keep pace with demand, otherwise emissions will remain high.

If emissions are not significantly reduced, 2025 may seem like one of the 'coolest' years in the future.

Source: ygeiamou.gr