Earth temperature percentiles for September 2014. Dark red patches were record warmest, while lighter red patches were warmer than average. Image courtesy of the NOAA.

Earth temperature percentiles for September 2014. Dark red patches were record warmest, while lighter red patches were warmer than average. Image courtesy of the NOAA.

The trend continues. The hottest September on record follows the hottest August on record, according to data from the Nation Oceanic and Atmospheric Association. 2014 continues apace as the hottest year ever.