The global average surface temperature in 2011 was the ninth warmest since 1880.The finding . Global temperatures have warmed significantly since 1880, the beginning of what scientists call the modern record. At this time, the coverage provided by . Follow ClimateState Nine of the top ten warmest years in the modern meteorological record have occurred since the year . Global temperatures have warmed significantly since 1880, the beginning of what scientists call the modern record. At this time, the coverage provided by .