Consider the following text to answer the question.
Global temperatures in 2025 were slightly lower than in 2024 because of La Niña, a natural weather pattern that cools the Pacific Ocean.
Even so, 2025 became the third warmest year ever recorded. The last three years were the hottest in history, which shows a clear long-term warming trend. Scientists say today’s temperatures stay far above levels from before the heavy use of fossil fuels.
Experts explain that this warming happens mainly because people continue to release carbon emissions. Although some cooling came from natural causes, it didn’t stop the overall rise. Scientists warn that more heat records and stronger weather events will follow if emissions don’t fall quickly. Fires, floods, and heat waves have already affected many parts of the world.
Researchers say the science is very clear and not uncertain. Governments, companies, and individuals all play a role. People can vote, spend money carefully, and support cleaner energy. Reducing emissions soon can help slow warming and protect the planet.
Based on the causal reasoning and argumentative progression developed in the text, the cooling observed in 2025 is best characterized as:
