The figures speak for themselves: the average temperature in peninsular Spain has reached 12.4°C in November 2024shattering the previous record established in 1983. This spectacular increase of 0.5°C compared to the old record demonstrates the acceleration of global warming. The thermometer showed astonishing values:
- More than 30°C in Aldea de San Nicolás (Gran Canaria)
- 24°C at Bilbao airport (Basque Country)
- 23°C in the south of the peninsula and at San Sebastián airport
- 30°C on the island of La Graciosa (Canary Islands)
These unseasonably high temperatures illustrate the extent of the phenomenon. Rubén del Campo, spokesperson for AEMET, emphasizes that this month of November was “extremely hot and very dry”a worrying combination for the ecosystem and agriculture.
An unprecedented thermal difference
Analysis of meteorological data reveals a difference of 2.8°C compared to the average for the period 1991-2020. This considerable deviation highlights the intensity of ongoing climate change. The table below illustrates this alarming development:
| Period | Average temperature | Gap |
|---|---|---|
| 1991-2020 | 9,6°C | Reference |
| November 2024 | 12,4°C | +2,8°C |
This significant increase in temperatures is accompanied by a change in rainfall patterns. Traditionally, November is one of the rainiest months in Spain, alongside October. However, in 2024, precipitation remained 40% below normaldespite the episode of DANA (Depression Aislada en Niveles Altos) having affected the Mediterranean area at the beginning of the month.
Climate and environmental implications
The consequences of this exceptionally hot November are multiple and worrying. The transition to December took place in summer conditions, disrupting natural and agricultural cycles. This situation highlights several aspects:
- Disturbance of ecosystems : the fauna and flora are disoriented by these abnormal temperatures.
- Water stress : the combination of heat and drought accentuates the risks of water shortage.
- Agricultural risks : Crops are threatened by these extreme climatic conditions.
- Increase in intense weather events : Episodes like DANA could become more frequent and violent.
These observations are part of a global warming trend, highlighting the urgency of concrete actions to mitigate climate change. Scientists warn of the need to drastically reduce greenhouse gas emissions to avoid catastrophic scenarios in the decades to come.
Towards a new climate normal?
Does the year 2024 mark a turning point in climate history? Experts agree that these temperature records could become the norm if radical measures are not taken. There scientific community calls for international mobilization to limit the rise in temperatures to 1.5°C, in accordance with the Paris agreements.
Faced with this alarming situation, it is crucial to rethink our ways of life and production. Adapting to new climatic realities becomes imperative, as does the implementation of ambitious environmental policies. The month of November 2024 will go down in history as a serious warning, reminding us of the urgency of action to preserve our planet and guarantee a viable future for future generations.
