The U.S. just had its hottest month on record
Reproduced from NOAA ; Chart: Axios Visuals July was the hottest month on record for the contiguous U.S., per new federal data dating back to 1895. By the numbers: Last month's average temperature was 76.89°F, topping the 76.77°F mark set in July 1936. That's 3.3°F warmer than the 1901-2000 average. What they're saying: "Above-average temperatures covered the entire [continental U.S.], with all…
Last month, the contiguous United States recorded its highest average temperature on record, according to new federal data from 1895. July's average temperature reached 76.89°F, surpassing the previous record set in July 1936 by 0.12°F. This temperature was 3.3°F higher than the 1901-2000 average.
Climate scientists reported that extreme heat events were widespread across the U.S., with all states experiencing temperatures that ranked in the warmest third of their July records. No states fell near or below average temperatures.
The heatwave was fueled by heat domes, which are areas of high atmospheric pressure that trap warm air. These domes contributed to several extreme heat events that occurred during July.
Scientists have found that climate change is causing extreme heat events to become more frequent and intense. However, these events are also linked to other factors, such as El Niño, a weather pattern that can cause warmer-than-average temperatures in the Pacific Ocean.
The Climate Prediction Center predicts an elevated chance of above-average temperatures for most of the continental U.S. through August. There is also a possibility that 2026 could set a new record for the hottest year globally.
Written by urgent.news from Axios's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
