The Exceptional Heat Wave Sweeping the U.S.: A Climate Change Perspective
Understanding the Record-Breaking Heat Wave
The United States is experiencing an unprecedented heat wave, affecting nearly half of the population. According to Climate Central’s Climate Shift Index, climate change has made Friday’s extreme temperatures at least three times more probable.
The Extent of the Heat Wave
Heat alerts cover portions of 33 states, impacting 150 million people. The South to the Mid-Atlantic regions are facing heat indexes between 105 to 110 degrees Fahrenheit, while the West is also experiencing exceptional heat but with lower humidity. This heat wave follows the hottest weather of the summer in the Upper Midwest and central Plains and a record-breaking July globally.
The Climate Change Connection
Human-caused climate change is intensifying this summer’s heat, as confirmed by Climate Central and the World Weather Attribution project. The Climate Shift Index quantifies how much more likely extreme temperatures are due to climate change, with Friday’s temperatures being significantly influenced.
Regional Impacts
- Western United States: Highs of 105 to 110 degrees Fahrenheit are forecast east of the Cascades through Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming, contributing to growing drought and wildfires.
- Eastern United States: The D.C. area is under an excessive-heat warning, with highs near 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Baltimore may reach 100 degrees for the eighth time this year, a record-tying figure.
Unusually Warm Nights
The rise in very warm nights has outpaced the increase in daytime temperatures, expanding the heat wave's impact.
Heat Relief Outlook
Cold fronts in the northern U.S. may provide some relief, but a heat dome over the Desert Southwest and South is likely to persist through early August. The outlook for August predicts above-normal temperatures for most of the country.
Addressing Climate Change
To mitigate the impact of such heat waves, reducing greenhouse gas emissions is crucial. Immediate and aggressive climate action is necessary to prevent further climate change-driven extreme weather events.
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