2025 was the UK’s warmest year on record and among the hottest globally. See what the dark red climate stripes reveal about accelerating warming.
The key warming facts for 2025
- UK: Met Office figures show 2025 was the UK’s warmest year on record.
- Ireland: Met Éireann confirms 2025 was Ireland’s second warmest year on record.
- Globally: 2025 has been widely assessed as Earth’s third-warmest year on record.
Taken together, the UK, Ireland and global data add another dark red stripe to the long-term warming pattern.
#ShowYourStripes
The Climate Stripes were designed by Professor Ed Hawkins, a climate scientist at the University of Reading and Co-Director of the Climate + Co-Centre. The Climate Stripes graphic uses one coloured stripe per year to make long-term climate change data immediately visible. This shows a clear shift from cooler blues to warmer reds over time.
The graphic above shows the Climate Stripes for Ireland using data from Met Éireann, available here
What’s driving the dark red climate stripes?
The core driver remains the same: continued burning of fossil fuels is increasing greenhouse gas concentrations, trapping more heat in the atmosphere. That long-term loading of heat makes record-breaking years more likely.
Why it matters
These aren’t just interesting records; it’s a clear signal that warming is becoming the new normal. In turn, the warming patterns are changing the risks communities face and putting pressure on the public services we rely on.
- Hotter heatwaves increase health risks and strain healthcare and emergency services.
- Heavier downpours raise the likelihood of flooding and disruption to transport and infrastructure.
- Rising sea levels increase coastal flooding hazards.
These risks highlight why many of our existing plans and policies, including those for health, water, infrastructure, farming, biodiversity, and emergency responses, need to be updated for a warming world.
Climate + has a critical role to play
A warming atmosphere and rising sea temperatures are already changing river flows and soil moisture. They are increasing the risk of droughts and floods. These changes are also affecting biodiversity and ecosystems. Seasonal patterns are shifting. Invasive species and disease risks are growing.
Across Ireland, Northern Ireland and Great Britain, Climate + brings together expert knowledge to address these interconnected challenges. We work to understand climate impacts and develop practical solutions. Our solutions support communities, businesses, educators and policymakers. Our focus includes preventing and adapting to climate change. We protect and restore ecosystems. We support sustainable economies and work to improve the quality of life for everyone.
Find out more about our ongoing research for businesses here, and please get in touch to explore how we might work together to understand, prepare for and shape a more resilient future in a warming world.