Europe experienced one of its warmest years in history in 2025, according to a report released Wednesday by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and European Union scientists. The report highlighted widespread heatwaves, record wildfires, glacier melt, and drought across the continent. WMO data indicated that including Greenland and the Caucasus, 2025 was Europe’s hottest year on record, while Copernicus data ranked it second or third when those regions were excluded.

Nearly 99 percent of Europe recorded above-average temperatures, marking the first time almost the entire continent exceeded normal levels. The WMO warned that a powerful El Niño could form by the end of the current year, potentially raising global temperatures through 2027. The UK Met Office suggested this event might evolve into a “super El Niño,” possibly the strongest of the century.

The report also noted unprecedented wildfire damage, record sea surface temperatures for the fourth consecutive year, and alarming glacier loss. Experts said Europe is warming about twice as fast as other continents, urging immediate large-scale climate action.