This year recorded the hottest October globally and in Europe

October 2026 was the hottest October recorded globally, with temperatures 1.75°C above pre-industrial levels. Europe experienced its second hottest October, averaging 11.51°C. While Eastern Europe and Scandinavia saw significant temperature increases, Western and Central Europe had milder anomalies. The sea surface temperature reached a record 20.95°C, contributing to high land temperatures. Dry conditions prevailed in parts of the Iberian Peninsula, France, and Eastern Europe, affecting major rivers. Conversely, wetter conditions were noted in parts of the UK, Ireland, and Southern Scandinavia. Arctic sea ice extent was 9% below average, marking the 13th lowest in 48 years, while Antarctic ice also fell below average levels.