The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has issued a warning for this summer in the United States. NOAA has sought to highlight the increased risk of drought and wildfires due to rising heat, as 20% of all states are forecast to experience record heat waves this year.
Several reasons are responsible for this spike in temperature, including the effects of human-induced climate change and the ongoing El Niño phenomenon in the Pacific Ocean. These 20 states will have record summer temperatures:
Texas
Texas, already well known for its scorching summers, will experience even more intense heat this year. Cities like Austin have seen an increase in triple-digit days over the past few decades, a troubling trend. With the upcoming La Niña phenomenon, Texas will be especially vulnerable to prolonged heat waves and worsening drought conditions.
Nevada
Locals are preparing for another hot summer. The state saw double-digit days last year in the triple digits, and this summer is predicted to be just as bad. Nevada could become a hotbed for wildfires as the state’s drought conditions from the previous year are likely to worsen.
New Mexico
New Mexico, which is expecting a scorching summer, is also unprepared for the weather change from El Niño to La Niña. The National Weather Service statement raised concerns about heat-related illnesses and stress on energy resources.
Utah
Utah has long been known for its scorching summers, but heat domes pose a growing threat. Heat domes are long periods of sunshine with high pressure. These domes are the result of La Niña and the state has been advised to prepare for a period of intense heat.
California
Although California is used to extreme heat and devastating wildfires, it is also preparing for a challenging summer. We all remember how terrible last year’s heat wave was, so NOAA’s forecast is warning of more, more intense heat waves and longer stretches of dry, hot weather.3 To better prepare for extreme heat, authorities are advising Californians to be cautious and follow the rules for thermal safety.
Washington
As the United States faces an unprecedented heat wave this summer, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has issued warnings for 20 states, each expected to experience record temperatures. As climate change continues to worsen weather and the ongoing El Niño phenomenon increases volatility, states such as Texas, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah, California, and Washington are particularly vulnerable. Potential consequences of these extreme conditions include severe drought, increased wildfire risk, and increased public health and energy concerns.
The forecasts underscore the urgency for residents and authorities in these states to prepare for the challenging conditions ahead. The need for proactive measures is more critical than ever, whether it is securing access to cooling centers, implementing water conservation measures, or preparing for fire evacuation.
As these states prepare for what could be one of the warmest years on record, the broader implications of climate change and the need for sustained, long-term environmental action are becoming increasingly apparent. This year’s heat waves are not just a temporary challenge, but a stark reminder of the ongoing impact of human-induced climate change on our environment and the urgent need for adaptation and mitigation efforts.