A new study from the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research shows global warming has accelerated since 2015. The research, published in Geophysical Research Letters, found temperatures have been rising about 0.35°C per decade since 2015, compared to an average of 0.2°C per decade between 1970 and 2015.
The researchers adjusted temperature records to remove natural influences like El Niño patterns, volcanic eruptions, and solar variations. Their analysis shows the acceleration is statistically significant with over 98% certainty across all data sets examined.
Lead author Stefan Rahmstorf explained that the adjusted data 'show an acceleration of global warming since 2015 with a statistical certainty of over 98 percent, consistent across all data sets examined and independent of the analysis method chosen.'
The accelerated warming rate means the world could reach the internationally agreed 1.5°C warming limit earlier than previously projected, potentially before 2030 if current trends continue.