Key Takeaways:
- Canada is expected to experience one of the hottest years on record in 2026, with temperatures on par with the record-breaking global heat waves in 2023 and 2025.
- Global temperatures are expected to stay between 1.35 and 1.53 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, marking the 13th consecutive year temperatures will be more than one degree higher than levels observed before the Industrial Revolution.
- Canada is forecasted to see its hottest five-year period ever recorded between 2026 and 2030.
- Human-made climate change is making summer heat waves 2-10 times more likely, with climate projections showing that many Canadian cities will see at least four times as many days above 30 C on average compared to historical data by the second half of this century.
Introduction to the Forecast
The heat is expected to be turned up in 2026, with Canadians bracing themselves for one of the hottest years on record. According to Environment and Climate Change Canada’s annual global mean temperature forecast, the upcoming year is predicted to be on par with the record-breaking global heat waves in 2023 and 2025. The forecast also suggests that temperatures may be close to 2024, which remains the warmest year ever observed. This is a concerning trend, as global temperatures are expected to stay between 1.35 and 1.53 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, marking the 13th consecutive year temperatures will be more than one degree higher than levels observed before the Industrial Revolution.
Historical Context
To put this forecast into perspective, it’s worth looking at the historical data. Last year’s brutal heat wave saw 51 daily heat records being broken across Canada, with the number of days above 30 C hitting record highs in multiple Canadian cities. This is a clear indication that the effects of climate change are being felt across the country. The June 2024 heat wave across Canada was made up to 10 times more likely because of human-caused climate change, according to Environment and Climate Change Canada data. This highlights the urgent need for action to mitigate the effects of climate change and reduce our carbon footprint.
Climate Projections
Climate projections show that by the second half of this century, many Canadian cities will see at least four times as many days above 30 C on average compared to historical data, according to the Canadian Climate Institute. This is a stark warning of the consequences of inaction, and it’s essential that we take steps to reduce our greenhouse gas emissions and transition to renewable energy sources. The forecast also predicts that Canada will see its hottest five-year period ever recorded between 2026 and 2030, which will have significant implications for public health, infrastructure, and the economy.
Human Impact
The impact of human-made climate change on summer heat waves cannot be overstated. Experts say that human-made climate change made summer heat waves 2-10 times more likely, which is a sobering thought. The consequences of inaction will be severe, from heat-related illnesses to damage to infrastructure and the economy. It’s essential that we take immediate action to reduce our carbon footprint and transition to a low-carbon economy. This includes investing in renewable energy, increasing energy efficiency, and promoting sustainable land use practices.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the forecast for 2026 is a wake-up call for Canadians to take action on climate change. The predicted heat wave is a reminder of the urgent need to reduce our greenhouse gas emissions and transition to a low-carbon economy. The consequences of inaction will be severe, and it’s essential that we take immediate action to mitigate the effects of climate change. By working together, we can reduce our carbon footprint and create a more sustainable future for generations to come. The key takeaways from this forecast are clear: Canada is expected to experience one of the hottest years on record, human-made climate change is making summer heat waves more likely, and we need to take immediate action to reduce our carbon footprint and transition to a low-carbon economy.
