May 2026 recorded the second-highest global average temperature for the month of May since climate records began, highlighting the continued warming trend affecting the planet.

The European Copernicus Climate Change Service reported that global temperatures during the month averaged approximately 1.42°C above pre-industrial levels, making it the second warmest May ever recorded.

According to the agency, the elevated temperatures were driven by ongoing human-induced climate change and persistently warm ocean surface temperatures, which remain near record highs.

Scientists also noted increasing signs of the development of an El Niño event in the Pacific Ocean, a climate pattern that can intensify heatwaves, droughts, floods, and other extreme weather events worldwide.

Large parts of Europe experienced unusually early and intense heatwaves during May, with several countries recording temperatures that broke historical records for this time of year, renewing concerns over the accelerating impacts of climate change.