Africa’s Weather is Changing Fast, Scientists Say
Weather scientists around the world have some important news about Africa. According to the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), Africa is facing big problems because of climate change. This news comes from their new report called the “State of the Climate in Africa 2024.”
Record-Breaking Heat
The scientists discovered that 2024 is one of the two hottest years ever measured in Africa. The last ten years have been the warmest time period ever recorded. The oceans around Africa are also super hot right now. The WMO found that parts of the ocean are warmer than they’ve ever been since people started measuring in 1993.
North Africa is the fastest-warming sub-region, with temperatures 1.28°C above the 1991-2020 average.
| How Climate Change Affects Kids in Africa | What This Means |
|---|---|
| Food problems | Farmers can’t grow enough food when weather is too hot or dry |
| Water troubles | Lakes and rivers can dry up or flood too much |
| Health concerns | Hot weather can make people sick and spread some diseases |
| School problems | Extreme weather can damage schools or make it hard to get there |
In 2024, Africa experienced one of its warmest years since records began over 120 years ago.
The #StateOfClimate in Africa 2024 report is out now. Click here: https://t.co/Bjq143xkm1 pic.twitter.com/JrAmqvgroc
— World Meteorological Organization (@WMO) May 12, 2025
How Scientists Are Trying to Help
- Smart computers: Using artificial intelligence (special smart computer programs) to predict weather better
- Early warnings: Creating alert systems to tell people before dangerous weather happens
- Building stronger: Helping communities prepare for climate problems
Celeste Saulo, the leader of the WMO scientists, said: “The State of the Climate in Africa report reflects the urgent and escalating realities of climate change across the continent.” She also said her team is working with countries to build something called “Early Warnings for All.”
The report shows that everyone needs to work together to solve these problems. Countries need better weather equipment and ways to share information. The WMO says governments, helper organizations, and businesses all need to spend more money on climate-smart solutions.
These climate changes are happening right now and getting worse. The weather scientists want everyone to understand how serious this is, especially for people in Africa who are already feeling these effects every day.
