The study addresses the challenge of assessing the velocities of isotherm shifts along elevation gradients in mountain regions, which are crucial for understanding species range shifts in response to climate change. The authors use satellite data (SLRT) and thermodynamic principles to account for water vapour (MALRT) to map the lapse rate of temperature (LRT) globally. They identify 17 mountain regions with exceptionally high vertical isotherm shift velocities, predominantly in dry areas but also in wet regions with shallow lapse rates. The findings highlight the importance of these regions for conservation strategies, as many species lag behind in tracking climate change. The study also reveals that the vertical velocities of isotherm shifts are influenced by both temperature lapse rates and surface temperature changes, with steeper lapse rates having a smaller negative effect on climate velocities compared to higher warming rates. The results suggest that mountain islands in the Northern Hemisphere are particularly threatened by climate change, and that all taxonomic groups are similarly affected in their ability to track isotherms. The study emphasizes the need for refined mountain meteorological networks and the establishment of networks to monitor climate change and its effects in mountain biodiversity hotspots.The study addresses the challenge of assessing the velocities of isotherm shifts along elevation gradients in mountain regions, which are crucial for understanding species range shifts in response to climate change. The authors use satellite data (SLRT) and thermodynamic principles to account for water vapour (MALRT) to map the lapse rate of temperature (LRT) globally. They identify 17 mountain regions with exceptionally high vertical isotherm shift velocities, predominantly in dry areas but also in wet regions with shallow lapse rates. The findings highlight the importance of these regions for conservation strategies, as many species lag behind in tracking climate change. The study also reveals that the vertical velocities of isotherm shifts are influenced by both temperature lapse rates and surface temperature changes, with steeper lapse rates having a smaller negative effect on climate velocities compared to higher warming rates. The results suggest that mountain islands in the Northern Hemisphere are particularly threatened by climate change, and that all taxonomic groups are similarly affected in their ability to track isotherms. The study emphasizes the need for refined mountain meteorological networks and the establishment of networks to monitor climate change and its effects in mountain biodiversity hotspots.