Antarctica May Have Just Hit An All-Time Record High Temperature

A record temperature of 64.9°F was reported at Argentina's Esperanza station in Antarctica. This record, yet to be confirmed by the WMO, surpasses the 2015 high of 63.5°F. The verification process could take up to nine months. The heat wave is likely due to rapid warming of air descending a slope. The Antarctic Peninsula is one of the fastest warming areas on Earth. This event follows NASA and NOAA's declaration of 2019 as the second hottest year on record, with human activity largely responsible for the trend through increased greenhouse gas emissions.

What are the likely causes of the heat wave in Antarctica according to the WMO?

How has human activity contributed to the temperature trends observed in Antarctica?