The average global temperature in 2005 reached the second highest level in the past century. The Japan Meteorological Agency reported this, a result confirmed by multiple other organizations. According to the Japan Meteorological Agency, the record for the highest temperature remains with the year 1998, seven years prior.
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Glaciers in the Alps retreated by 16 meters in 2005 |
According to the Swiss Academy of Sciences, glaciers in the Alps retreated by 16 meters in 2005. In total, 44 out of 93 glaciers in Switzerland lost part of their majestic presence. Scientists were not surprised: “Predictions about glacier melting are very difficult to get right. However, the thinning of glaciers is a clear indication of significant climate change during the study period.”
The year 2005 also confirmed the trend of global warming. The year 1998 remains the hottest year in the past century, with 2005 ranking just behind it at around 14 or 15oC. It is challenging to determine the precise average temperature of 2005. According to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), the temperature has increased by approximately 1oC since the beginning of this century.
From now until the end of the century, the Earth’s temperature could increase by an additional 1 to 6oC on a global scale. The consequences are not limited to melting glaciers. Currently, scientists are investigating the increase in the number and intensity of storms traversing the Atlantic Ocean. They suspect that the primary cause is global warming.
