A new report has raised serious concerns about climate change, especially in Asia. The report says that freshwater sources and coastal areas in the region are at high risk. According to the World Meteorological Organization’s (WMO) State of the Climate in Asia 2024 report, Asia is warming up twice as fast as the global average. This rapid temperature rise is making climate problems in the region even worse.

The State of the Climate in Asia 2024 report has revealed that Asia is facing serious environmental challenges. In 2024, the continent recorded one of its warmest years ever, with average temperatures 1.04°C higher than the 1991–2020 average. This means Asia is heating up nearly twice as fast as the global average.

The rising temperatures have sped up glacier melting in important mountain ranges like the Himalayas and the Tian Shan in Central Asia. This threatens key freshwater sources and natural ecosystems. The report also warned that sea surface temperatures in the region hit record highs in 2024. As a result, sea levels along Asia’s Pacific and Indian Ocean coasts rose faster than the global average, putting millions of people in coastal areas, like those in India, at greater risk.

These rising sea levels have increased the chances of flooding and storm surges. The region also experienced more extreme weather events throughout the year. Prolonged heatwaves hit several parts of Asia, leading to hundreds of heat-related deaths, especially in India and Japan. The ocean also suffered, with marine heatwaves growing to a record 15 million square kilometres, badly affecting sea life.

Tropical Cyclone Yagi was the strongest storm of the year, causing heavy destruction in Southeast Asia and killing dozens in northern Vietnam in September. Central Asia faced its worst floods in over 70 years, while the UAE saw record-breaking rainfall that damaged roads and buildings. In Nepal, floods in September 2024 killed at least 246 people, though early warnings and quick action helped save many lives.

The report says there is an urgent need for strong climate action. It highlights the importance of weather services in preparing for disasters and protecting lives. With Asia warming so quickly, taking early steps is key to reducing future damage and saving lives.