July 2023 set to be world’s hottest month on record

Jul 28 2023

In July 2023, the world is witnessing an alarming rise in temperatures, with experts predicting that it will become the hottest month on record globally. Vast areas of three continents are experiencing extreme heat, and there is also unprecedented ocean warming, raising concerns about the state of the planet’s climate.

The European Union’s Copernicus Climate Change Service and the World Meteorological Organization have reported that July 2023 will likely break temperature records by a significant margin. The average temperature for the first 23 days of the month was recorded at 16.95 degrees Celsius, surpassing the previous record set in 2019. While the WMO is awaiting final data in August before officially declaring the record, a study by Germany’s Leipzig University has already predicted that July 2023 will indeed claim the top spot.

July 2023 set to be world's hottest month on record

This three-week period has seen the hottest temperatures ever recorded, and scientists believe that such extreme heat has not been experienced on Earth for over a hundred thousand years. The data used to track these temperature records goes back to 1940, but experts, including those at Copernicus, contend that these current temperatures are likely the warmest the planet has seen in 120,000 years. This conclusion is drawn from the analysis of climate data from various sources such as tree rings, coral reefs, and deep sea sediment cores, providing insights into the planet’s climatic history over millennia.

According to EU data, this month’s mean global temperature is projected to be at least 0.2 degrees Celsius (0.4 degrees Fahrenheit) warmer than the previous record-holder, July 2019, which had been the hottest month in the 174-year observational record.

Climate scientists are in agreement that human-caused climate change is the primary driver behind these extreme heat conditions. The rise in greenhouse gas emissions due to human activities is exacerbating the greenhouse effect, trapping more heat in the atmosphere and leading to global warming. This situation emphasises the urgency of taking action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, transition to cleaner energy sources, and implement measures to mitigate the impacts of climate change. As the consequences of extreme heat become more evident, it becomes crucial for countries and individuals to work together to address the global climate crisis and protect the planet for future generations.

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Malta Had 11 Heat-Related Deaths So Far

Jul 28 2023

The Health Ministry has confirmed that the scorching heatwave in Malta has so far claimed the lives of 11 people.

On July 24 and July 25, Malta had seven fatalities recorded during the two hottest days. The victims, were all aged between 52 and 97.

The number of people suffering from hyperthermia, an abnormally high body temperature, has spiked, surpassing normal levels in recent days, which is expected at this time of the year.

Elderly residents are among the hardest hit by the heatwave, and they have become highly vulnerable to the extreme weather conditions.

Mater Dei Hospital is witnessing an unprecedented influx of individuals seeking emergency services.

Authorities are urging citizens to take necessary precautions to protect themselves and their loved ones – Staying hydrated, seeking shelter in cool places, and avoiding outdoor activities during peak heat hours are some of the vital measures recommended.

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From Global Warming to Global Boiling: The Fiery Reality of Climate Change

Jul 28 2023

Hold on tight, folks, because the days of global warming are officially over! UN Secretary-General António Guterres has declared a startling new era: “global boiling.”

This chilling announcement comes hot on the heels of shocking news from scientists—July is on track to be the hottest month ever recorded, with global temperatures smashing all previous records. The culprit behind this intensifying climate chaos? Climate change, fueled by the burning of fossil fuels. Guterres is sounding the alarm, stressing the urgent need for immediate and drastic climate action to cap the global temperature rise at 1.5°C and stave off the direst consequences.

From Global Warming to Global Boiling: The Fiery Reality of Climate Change

He calls on political leaders to act swiftly and decisively in the face of this critical and terrifying challenge. Brace yourselves, for climate change is no longer a distant threat—it’s right here, right now, and it’s just the beginning. But fear not, there’s still hope to turn the tide and avoid the worst of climate change, but only through bold, immediate action. Let’s unite and safeguard our planet!

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ADPD Protest In Valletta: “No To Corruption, Incompetence And Carelessness”

Jul 28 2023

In response to the recent electricity crisis, a group of concerned citizens gathered near the Parliament building in Valletta last night, answering the call of ADPD.

The protesters united to condemn corruption, incompetence, and carelessness, which they believe contributed to the blackout situation. Furthermore, they emphasized the urgent need for a modern, sustainable energy system that ensures a reliable supply of electricity for a better quality of life.

Dr. Ralph Cassar, the Secretary General of ADPD, addressed the gathering, highlighting the root cause of the problem – an economic ideology that prioritizes limitless growth, benefitting only a privileged few, and treats resources as if they are infinite. He pointed out that this mindset has led to a reckless waste of energy, with extravagant subsidies rewarding irresponsible consumption. Cassar drew attention to the interconnection between corruption and energy, exemplified by previous scandals such as the purchase of gas and oil ten years ago. He lamented the lack of progress in developing a robust distribution system to support the transition towards renewable energy sources.

In a call to action, Cassar outlined several solutions that the Prime Minister should urgently consider to address the consequences of climate change and improve the country’s energy policy. These proposals have also been presented in a petition, which the ADPD is actively collecting signatures for.

Sandra Gauci, Chairperson of ADPD, extended appreciation to Enemalta workers, acknowledging their role as victims of negligence and financial mismanagement. Gauci criticized the government’s claim of being the ‘best in Europe,’ stating that the recent power cuts have exposed the hollowness of such assertions. Gauci attributed the blackout as a symptom of a flawed economic model based on cheap labor and precarious employment, both for Maltese workers and foreign laborers. She demanded the resignation of Minister Miriam Dalli and the Enemalta board, as well as an independent inquiry to identify mistakes and provide recommendations for improvement. Additionally, the ADPD plans to involve the Auditor General to investigate the allocation of funds for the distribution system to ensure transparency and accountability.

In conclusion, Gauci emphasized the urgency of implementing sustainable and socially just energy policies that guarantee a stable energy supply for Malta. The ADPD’s vision aims for a modern energy system that prioritizes renewable sources and ensures a better quality of life for all citizens.

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