State of the Climate in Asia 2024

The World Meteorological Organization’s State of the Climate in Asia 2024 report warns that the region is warming nearly twice as fast as the global average, driving more extreme weather and posing serious threats to lives, ecosystems, and economies. In 2024, Asia experienced its warmest or second warmest year on record, with widespread and prolonged heatwaves. Record-high sea surface temperatures and marine heatwaves affected vast areas, while sea level rise in the Pacific and Indian Oceans exceeded the global average, increasing risks for low-lying coastal areas. Glaciers in the central Himalayas and Tian Shan suffered severe mass loss, contributing to rising hazards such as glacial lake outburst floods and landslides, and jeopardizing long-term water security. Extreme rainfall, droughts, and destructive tropical cyclones also caused widespread damage and casualties. The report features a case study from Nepal, showing how strengthened early warning systems and anticipatory action are helping communities adapt and respond to climate risks. It calls for urgent investment in adaptation, early warnings, and climate-resilient development.