February 2024 Climate Summary
February witnessed extreme heat and high temperatures in both hemispheres, according to the UN weather agency (WMO). The southern hemisphere experienced extreme heat during its summer, while the northern hemisphere saw atypical high temperatures for winter.
Global Temperature Records
- Record-breaking temperatures were observed in parts of North and South America, northwest and southeast Africa, southeast and far eastern Asia, western Australia, and Europe.
- Global sea surface temperatures reached record highs, attributed to both the El Niño weather pattern and human-induced climate change.
Regional Climate Anomalies
In contrast, regions such as northwestern Canada, central Asia, and southern central Siberia to southeastern China experienced exceptionally cold temperatures during the last week of February.
Chad’s Refugee Crisis
The UN refugee agency (UNHCR) expressed growing concern about the influx of refugees from Darfur into Chad due to food and essential shortages. Chad, hosting refugees from Sudan’s civil war, urgently requires humanitarian aid and development investment to support the refugee influx.
Humanitarian Challenges
- Chad declared a state of emergency for food and nutrition security following the suspension of rations by the World Food Programme (WFP) due to funding constraints.
- Women and children make up a significant portion of refugees in Chad, with many exposed to gender-based violence and in need of comprehensive support.
Zero Discrimination Day
UNAIDS marked the 10th anniversary of Zero Discrimination Day, emphasizing the importance of advancing equality and fairness for all individuals, regardless of gender, sexuality, or HIV status.
Call to Action
UNAIDS highlighted the increasing attacks on the rights of marginalized communities and the critical need to combat stigma and discrimination to achieve the goal of ending AIDS by 2030.
UN’s Commitment to Rights
The United Nations reaffirmed its support for global rights movements and initiatives, emphasizing the importance of protecting health and rights for all individuals.