August 2026 sets global heat record, El Niño fuels fires and floods

August 2026 was the hottest month on record globally, with average temperatures of 16.9°C, edging past the prior record by 0.01°C. The El Niño event contributed to extreme weather, including flooding and wildfires. This marks a continuation of the warming trend, with the marginal record increase underscoring the persistence of climate change.