Europe Confirmed as Fastest-Warming Continent in 2024 Climate Report

UN-led analysis reveals 2024 as Europe’s hottest year on record, with severe floods, deadly storms, and progress in renewable energy and adaptation efforts.

The European State of the Climate 2024 report highlights Europe as the fastest-warming continent, with 2024 recording its highest temperatures ever.
Extreme weather events, including widespread floods and storms, affected 413,000 people and claimed 335 lives, with Valencia's October flood accounting for 70% of fatalities.
Nearly 30% of Europe’s rivers exceeded high flood thresholds, while 12% surpassed severe flood levels, marking the most extensive flooding since 2013.
Human-driven climate change, fueled by fossil fuel emissions, intensified extreme weather, including heatwaves, torrential rains, and accelerated glacial retreat.
Despite ongoing challenges, renewable energy reached a record 45% of Europe’s electricity generation in 2024, and 51% of cities implemented climate adaptation plans.