Copernicus reports record atmospheric water vapor in August

The Earth's atmosphere contained record levels of water vapor in August, according to the Copernicus Climate Change Service. The amount reached 27.35 kilograms per square meter, surpassing the previous record set in July 2024.

This increase represents approximately 20 trillion additional liters of water globally. Scientists attribute this phenomenon to high global temperatures and a strong El Niño event in the Pacific Ocean. Warmer air can hold more moisture; specifically, for every one degree Celsius increase in global temperature, the atmosphere can hold about 7% more water vapor.

This surge in humidity increases the risk of extreme weather events, including more intense rainfall, stronger storms, and more dangerous heat episodes. The excess moisture provides additional energy to tropical cyclones and storms, while also preventing temperatures from dropping sufficiently at night during heatwaves.