Daily Current Affairs : 11-January-2024

The year 2023 has left an indelible mark on our climate records, emerging as the warmest year on record. Surpassing the previous record set in 2016, the implications of this unprecedented global temperature increase are far-reaching, affecting climate patterns and giving rise to extreme weather events.

Global Temperature Surge:

In 2023, the global temperature soared to alarming levels, standing at 1.48°C higher than the average recorded during the pre-industrial period of 1850-1900. This significant rise is a stark reminder of the escalating impact of human activities on the Earth’s climate.

Elevated Temperature Trends:

Approximately 50% of the days in 2023 witnessed temperatures surpassing the critical 1.5°C mark compared to the baseline. This consistent elevation in temperatures throughout the year underscores the urgency of addressing climate change to prevent further escalation.

Consequential Climatic Events:

The repercussions of the elevated temperatures in 2023 were profound, manifesting in a series of climatic events with far-reaching consequences. From devastating heatwaves and widespread floods to crippling droughts and rampant wildfires, the planet bore the brunt of a climate in turmoil.

Marine Heatwaves in Focus:

The oceans, crucial players in the Earth’s climate system, experienced heightened temperatures in 2023. Marine heatwaves, notably observed in the Mediterranean, Gulf of Mexico, Indian Ocean, North Pacific, and extensive areas of the North Atlantic, signify an alarming trend with potential ecological ramifications.

El Niño’s Role in Intensification:

The onset of El Niño in 2023 added a complicating factor to the climate equation, contributing to the intensification of temperature extremes. El Niño, a natural weather phenomenon involving the warming of surface waters in the eastern Pacific Ocean, played a role in elevating global temperatures and influencing weather patterns globally.

Important Points:
  • Global Temperature Surge:
    • 2023 recorded a global temperature 1.48°C higher than the pre-industrial period (1850-1900).
    • Represents a significant increase, surpassing the previous record in 2016.
  • Elevated Temperature Trends:
    • About 50% of days in 2023 exceeded the critical 1.5°C mark compared to the baseline.
    • Highlights a consistent and concerning elevation in temperatures throughout the year.
  • Consequential Climatic Events:
    • Widespread impact of elevated temperatures resulted in:
      • Devastating heatwaves.
      • Widespread floods.
      • Crippling droughts.
      • Rampant wildfires.
  • Marine Heatwaves in Focus:
    • Oceans experienced heightened temperatures in various regions:
      • Mediterranean.
      • Gulf of Mexico.
      • Indian Ocean.
      • North Pacific.
      • Extensive areas of the North Atlantic.
    • Signifies a concerning trend with potential ecological ramifications.
  • El Niño’s Role in Intensification:
    • The onset of El Niño in 2023 contributed to the intensification of temperature extremes.
    • El Niño, a natural weather phenomenon involving the warming of surface waters in the eastern Pacific Ocean, played a role in elevating global temperatures and influencing weather patterns globally.
Why In News

In addition to its distinction as the warmest year on record, 2023 highlights the urgent need for coordinated international efforts to mitigate climate change and adapt to the escalating impacts, underscoring the critical importance of sustainable practices for the future of our planet.

MCQs about Climate Landscape of 2023

  1. What was the global temperature increase in 2023 compared to the pre-industrial period (1850-1900)?
    A. 0.5°C
    B. 1.0°C
    C. 1.48°C
    D. 2.0°C
    Correct Answer: C. 1.48°C
    Explanation: The global temperature in 2023 was 1.48°C higher than the pre-industrial period.
  2. How many days in 2023 experienced temperatures surpassing the critical 1.5°C mark compared to the baseline?
    A. 25%
    B. 50%
    C. 75%
    D. 100%
    Correct Answer: B. 50%
    Explanation: About 50% of the days in 2023 witnessed temperatures exceeding the 1.5°C mark compared to the baseline.
  3. What climatic events were a consequence of the elevated temperatures in 2023?
    A. Snowstorms and blizzards
    B. Heatwaves, floods, droughts, and wildfires
    C. Tornadoes and hurricanes
    D. Monsoons and cyclones
    Correct Answer: B. Heatwaves, floods, droughts, and wildfires
    Explanation: The elevated temperatures in 2023 resulted in widespread climatic events, including these.
  4. Which ocean regions experienced marine heatwaves in 2023?
    A. Atlantic and Pacific
    B. Arctic and Antarctic
    C. Indian and Atlantic
    D. Mediterranean, Gulf of Mexico, Indian Ocean, North Pacific, and North Atlantic
    Correct Answer: D. Mediterranean, Gulf of Mexico, Indian Ocean, North Pacific, and North Atlantic
    Explanation: Various regions witnessed marine heatwaves, specifically in these areas.

Boost up your confidence by appearing our Weekly Current Affairs Multiple Choice Questions

Loading