Europe faced a barrage of contrasting weather extremes last year, as detailed in the latest European State of the Climate report by the EU's Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S) and the World Meteorological Organization. From record-breaking wildfires to severe flooding and marine heatwaves, the continent encountered a range of climatic challenges.

In 2023, Europe witnessed its largest recorded wildfire, alongside exceptionally wet conditions and devastating flooding. The year marked the continuation of a warming trend, with the three warmest years in Europe occurring since 2020. Damages from weather-related events amounted to €13.4 billion, with flooding accounting for over 80% of the losses.

Extreme heat posed significant health risks, leading to a surge in heat-related deaths and a record number of days with extreme heat stress. Despite these risks, the public, including healthcare professionals, often underestimated the dangers of increasing temperatures.

The report also highlighted the impact of warming on glaciers in the Alps, which experienced exceptional ice loss due to reduced winter snowfall. Heat and drought fueled wildfires across Europe, with Greece witnessing its largest wildfire on record.

Europe's rapid warming is attributed to its proximity to the rapidly warming Arctic and improved air quality, which reduces the cooling effect of atmospheric particles. While renewable energy sources accounted for a record 43% of electricity generation in Europe, greenhouse gas emissions continued to rise, underscoring the need for further climate action.

Although the end of the El Niño climate pattern may mitigate temperature extremes in the coming European summer, achieving net-zero emissions remains imperative to stabilize the climate and prevent further weather extremes.