The report pulled together data from 10 climate indicators measured by 160 research groups in 48 countries. The scientists compared the figures decade by decade as far back as possible, more than 100 years in some cases. The report found the past decade was 0.6 degrees Celsius warmer than the 1960s, and 0.2 degrees warmer than the 1990s.

"The conclusion is unmistakable – yes, the planet is warming," said Derek Arndt, a co-editor of the report.

Of the 10 measurements, the report said seven are rising – air temperature over land, sea-surface temperature, air temperature over oceans, sea level, ocean heat, humidity and the temperature of the troposphere (atmosphere closest to the Earth's surface). Three indicators are declining – Arctic sea ice, glaciers and spring snow cover in the Northern Hemisphere. All point to a warming trend.

Dr. Peter Stott, head of climate monitoring and attribution at the Met Office, said "Despite the fact people say global warming has stopped, the new data, added on to existing data, gives us the greatest evidence we have ever had."