A Real Threat Felt Across Seasons
After spending over two years in Istanbul, I recently returned in January 2025. Over this time, I’ve noticed a disturbing shift in the seasons, something we’ve all felt but maybe don’t talk about enough. Last year, during the summer of 2024, I visited Pakistan. Summers in Pakistan are typically scorching, but that year it was different—unbearably hotter than usual. And now, returning to Istanbul this winter, the cold feels softer, almost muted. Winter seems less like winter.
These personal experiences are just small parts of a much larger picture. The world is warming, and it’s not just a headline anymore—it’s something you feel in the air, under the sun, and even during the chill of winter. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), 2023 was one of the hottest years on record. Global temperatures have risen by approximately 1.1°C (2°F) since pre-industrial times. While this might seem like a small change, its effects are massive and growing.
The Numbers Don’t Lie
In 2024, Pakistan experienced an extreme heatwave, with temperatures soaring over 50°C (122°F) in some areas. This kind of heat is not just uncomfortable; it’s dangerous. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), heatwaves now cause thousands of deaths annually, and the frequency of these extreme events has tripled over the past few decades.
Meanwhile, Europe, including cities like Istanbul, has been experiencing milder winters. According to the European Environment Agency, winter temperatures in Europe have increased by 1.3°C (2.3°F) since the 1960s. Snowfall is decreasing, and ski seasons are getting shorter, impacting both the environment and industries reliant on winter tourism.
What’s Behind the Shift?
The primary driver of these changes is the increase in greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane in our atmosphere. Human activities such as burning fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial processes have caused CO2 levels to surge by over 50% since 1750. This traps more heat, disrupts weather patterns, and accelerates the melting of polar ice caps, leading to rising sea levels and climate anomalies.
Why It Matters
These shifts aren’t just about discomfort. Hotter summers strain water supplies, disrupt agriculture, and increase the risk of wildfires. Warmer winters can affect ecosystems, leading to imbalances like early plant blooming or insect infestations. The impacts are interconnected and affect everyone.
What Can We Do?
While governments and organizations are key players in tackling climate change, individuals have a role too. Reducing waste, using energy-efficient appliances, and cutting down on single-use plastics can make a difference. Advocacy also matters—demanding stronger climate policies and supporting sustainable businesses helps create larger-scale change.
Returning to Istanbul this winter has made me realize that these changes are no longer abstract. They’re here, affecting the seasons, the air we breathe, and the world we leave behind for future generations. Global warming is real, and it’s up to all of us to do something about it—before it’s too late.
