Singapore: Breaking Records with Warmest Year in 2024
Singapore experienced a monumental year in terms of temperature in 2024, tying with 2019 and 2016 as the warmest year on record, as reported by the Meteorological Service Singapore. This groundbreaking news was unveiled on Friday, January 10, with all months showcasing temperatures that exceeded or matched their long-term averages.
**April: A Sizzling Start**
The scorching heat was most evident in April, which not only claimed the title of the warmest month in 2024 but also broke records as the hottest April ever recorded. The mean temperature of 29.4 degrees Celsius soared 1.2 degrees above the long-term average, matching 2016 for the highest April temperature. Additionally, the mean daily minimum temperature of 26.7 degrees Celsius equaled the record set in 2016, making April a month of exceptional warmth.
**July: Heating Up**
Following closely behind was July, the second warmest month of 2024. This month also set a new record as the warmest July in history, with a mean temperature of 29.3 degrees Celsius, surpassing the previous record from 2015. The mean daily minimum temperature of 27.1 degrees Celsius further solidified July’s position as the warmest, surpassing the 2019 record.
**December: Ending on a Hot Note**
Bringing the year to a close was December, which may have been one of the cooler months, but it still managed to secure the title of the warmest December on record. With a monthly mean temperature of 27.7 degrees Celsius, tying with 2015 and 2021, December broke previous temperature records. Notably, the mean daily maximum temperature of 31.7 degrees Celsius exceeded the 2016 and 2018 records, with a significant spike on December 7th, reaching 35.6 degrees Celsius at Changi climate station.
**Humanizing Touch**
Imagine walking down the streets of Singapore, feeling the intense heat of a record-breaking year. With temperatures soaring to unprecedented levels, the daily struggle against the sweltering weather became a shared experience for all residents. From April’s scorching start to December’s unexpected warmth, every month offered a new challenge, making 2024 a year to remember for all Singaporeans.
**Rainfall Patterns: A Rollercoaster Ride**
While the heat dominated headlines, rainfall patterns in Singapore also witnessed significant fluctuations throughout the year. The country experienced the 12th highest annual total rainfall since 1980, with an average of 2739.8mm – 8.1% above the long-term average. Changi climate station recorded 2432mm of rainfall, indicating a 15.1% increase from its historical average.
The year was marked by extreme shifts in rainfall, with Singapore facing a dry spell in July and August, followed by record-breaking rainfall in November. The variability in monthly rainfall levels kept Singaporeans on their toes, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the country’s weather patterns.
In conclusion, Singapore’s climatic journey in 2024 was a rollercoaster ride of temperature extremes and rainfall surprises. From unprecedented heat waves to erratic rainfall patterns, the year left an indelible mark on the nation’s climate history, underscoring the importance of climate action and adaptation in the face of changing weather patterns.