New York: The effects of human-induced climate change are being felt by one in five people worldwide, a new report revealed on Wednesday. The report highlights the pervasive impact of climate change as a significant portion of the global population faces extreme temperatures influenced by human activities.

According to Anadolu Agency, the report published by Climate Central, an independent science organization, found that at least 1.8 billion people-22% of the global population-experienced temperatures significantly influenced by climate change every day from December 2024 to February 2025. This underscores the widespread reach of climate change, as nearly one-quarter of the world's population contends with its effects on a daily basis.

Over the past three months, human-induced climate change, primarily from the burning of coal, oil, and methane gas, has resulted in extreme heat across most regions. This period saw almost 394 million people enduring 30 or more days of "risky heat" intensified by climate change, with a significant 74% of those individuals residing in Africa. This highlights the disproportionate impact on certain regions, particularly in Africa, where the effects are most acute.

The report defines "risky heat" days as those with temperatures exceeding 90% of the typical local temperatures from 1991 to 2020. Such conditions heighten the risk of heat-related health issues, posing a significant threat to public health in affected regions.

The research also identified February 28, 2025, as the day with the highest global exposure, when three billion people-37% of the global population-experienced temperatures significantly influenced by climate change. This marks a stark reminder of the growing challenge posed by climate change and the urgent need for global action to mitigate its impacts.