This summer has been a scorcher. And we haven’t hit August yet.
The Old Farmer’s Almanac predicts a hotter-than-average summer for much of the country. And a global forecast from Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) warns that 2026 will be one of the hottest years ever recorded, coming close to the record-setting temps of 2024. And NOAA, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, confirms the year is trending that way.
Heat waves – defined as multiple days and nights of abnormally high temperatures – have been longer lasting, more frequent, and more intense. Their rate of occurrence has nearly tripled since the 1960s.
Heat wave episodes are often caused by heat domes, which are high-pressure systems that act as a lid, trapping high temperatures. Rotating counterclockwise, a heat dome can be fueled by warm and humid southwesterly winds, which only intensifies the situation. Heat domes suppress clouds and precipitation and can stall for days or sometimes many weeks. Factor in climate change and higher baseline temperatures, and that results in more intense heat domes than previous years.
Scorching heat in June and July broke records around the globe, including several places in the US, Canada, Asia, and Europe. Areas in Wyoming reached a sweltering 110 degrees for the first time in chronicled history; Billings, Montana set a record with 111 degrees; and Salt Lake City, Utah reached an all-time high of 109. Armstrong, Canada topped out at 105 degrees, while Western Europe recorded its hottest June ever.
During this period, power outages were prevalent, and major cities canceled July 4th festivities. Extreme heat also threatens agriculture and is hard on infrastructure and transportation. But most importantly, extreme temperatures have dangerous health consequences; it is the leading cause of weather-related deaths. Certain populations like the elderly, the very young, and people with chronic health conditions are especially vulnerable.
But there are things we can do to take care of ourselves.
Avoid outdoor activity during the hottest hours of the day and stay indoors if possible. While outdoors, shaded areas can make temperatures feel significantly cooler.
Stay hydrated. Drink at least one cup of water per hour. And when work, sports, or other activities are unavoidable, try beverages with electrolytes.
Other cooling methods include cool baths or showers and wearing lightweight, loose-fitting clothing. And don’t forget sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat for protection.
Pay attention to heat warnings and check in with vulnerable family, friends, and neighbors – especially those living alone.
Keep your home cool. Block heat and sunlight with drapes or blinds. If using air conditioning, setting a higher temperature accompanied by the use of a fan can make the space feel significantly cooler.
Triple-digit temperatures continue to shatter records. The data shows that the number of heat waves in the US has essentially doubled over the last 40-50 years. Both people and the planet are feeling the effects of rising temperatures and climate change. Stay vigilant and safe this summer.
Enjoy more related content from HEC Media:
Tips for beating the heat from a University of Missouri physician
The TACO method of saving lives due to heat waves and heat exhaustion
Dangerous conditions from a historic heat wave
July of 2023 was the hottest on record
The record-setting summer of 2023
