Earth's energy imbalance doubles in 20 years
Earth is holding onto way more heat than it used to—its energy imbalance has more than doubled since the mid-2000s, according to a new study.
Between 2005 and 2023, satellite and ocean data show this gap jumped from about 0.6 to 1.3W per square meter, speeding up global warming.
About 90% of this extra heat ends up in oceans
About 90% of this extra heat ends up in our oceans, thanks mostly to rising greenhouse gasses trapping more warmth.
Less cloud cover also means Earth is soaking up even more sunlight.
As a result, global surface temperatures have climbed by as much as 1.5°C above preindustrial times.
We are likely to see stronger warming, more extreme weather
This rapid shift means we're likely to see stronger warming and more extreme weather—think hotter heatwaves and longer droughts.
The study suggests that if emissions keep rising, things could get even hotter.
Scientists say keeping an eye on these changes with satellites and ocean sensors is key for planning climate action that actually works.