Tag Archives: heatwave

Understanding the Intensity of the Recent Heatwave in the West as It Comes to an End

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The intense spring heat dome that has gripped the West for over a week is finally starting to shift. This extreme weather event has set over 1,500 temperature records across 11 states, according to Climate Central, a leading research organization in climate analysis.

The ongoing heatwave is causing climate scientists, irrigation managers, and local authorities to weigh the potential for a significant water crisis and to assess the unprecedented nature of this weather phenomenon. Even before the surge in temperatures, Western states were noting record low snowfall—a situation that has persisted, leaving many areas nearly devoid of snow.

Researchers have long established that climate change is likely to exacerbate heat waves. However, some scientists are exploring whether lesser-known climate factors could account for the exceptional longevity, intensity, and scope of this month’s heat events.

Fans of the Los Angeles Dodgers protect themselves from the sun during a spring training game in Phoenix on March 21.
Ross D. Franklin/Associated Press

Jennifer Brady, a senior data analyst at Climate Central, noted that the heatwave’s extensive effects and duration qualify as an anomaly, “even given the climate change we’re currently experiencing, which many refer to as the new normal.”

Climate Central has developed a climate change index that assesses the influence of climate change on daily temperature averages, rating them from 1 to 5.

Around 29% of the country recorded maximum temperatures classified as a “5” by Climate Central—indicating that these temperatures are at least five times more likely to occur due to climate change. Historical data since 1970 shows that the region is experiencing unprecedented temperature anomalies.

“This is unprecedented and potentially very dangerous,” Brady stated.

Crowds flock to Baker Beach near the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco on March 16 during the ongoing heatwave.
Tayfun Coskun / Anadolu via Getty Images

The World Weather Attribution Group, comprising scientists who publish statistical analyses of climate impacts, confirmed that climate change played a significant role in the early March heatwave. They stated that these temperatures were statistically practically impossible without climate change, with measurements showing some areas experienced temperatures 20 to 30 degrees Fahrenheit above the average.

In a report released on March 20, the group asserted that climate change is raising the intensity of heatwaves in the West by more than 7 degrees Fahrenheit, making them 800 times more likely to happen compared to a world without global warming.

Climate change is shifting temperature distributions globally. According to Karen McKinnon, an associate professor at UCLA’s Department of Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences, land is heating up more rapidly than oceans, with the western U.S. warming faster than other regions.

While the global average temperature last year exceeded pre-industrial levels by 1.47 degrees Celsius (2.65 degrees Fahrenheit), McKinnon noted that “depending on your location, we may have already encountered warming of 4 to 5 degrees Fahrenheit.”

Families leave Aliso Beach at sunset amidst a record heatwave on March 20 in Laguna Beach, California.
Kevin Carter/Getty Images

Researchers are increasingly curious if factors beyond base-level warming are enhancing the severity of heatwaves like this one. Some are investigating whether climate changes are affecting atmospheric dynamics.

This month’s heatwave resulted from a phenomenon known as a heat dome, which occurs when high pressure and clear skies stagnate over a region, trapping heat like a lid on a stovetop and intensifying global warming.

Scientists propose that climate change is shifting large-scale atmospheric circulation patterns, contributing to the prevalence of heat domes and influencing the jet stream’s behavior. The polar jet stream generally separates cold Arctic air from warmer southern air, and changes in its pattern may lead to extreme weather events.

Researchers speculate that climate change has enlarged jet stream waves, leading to more significant shifts in temperature across the continental U.S.

McKinnon stated that while scientists are probing these trends, conclusive answers remain elusive. Competing theories are surfacing, and it may take years to establish a consensus on these critical climate questions.

“This poses a million-dollar question,” McKinnon said. “Are these atmospheric changes primarily driven by climate change?”

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Record Heatwave in the West Continues as Heat Dome Shifts to the Plains

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A severe heatwave has engulfed much of the western United States this weekend, plunging cities and residents into sweltering conditions typically reserved for mid-summer.

An unrelenting heat wave has gripped California and the desert Southwest, with temperatures expected to soar 20 to 40 degrees Fahrenheit above the seasonal average. This heat will spread eastward into the central United States in the coming days, as reported by the National Weather Service.

Since Tuesday, over 150 daily temperature records and nearly 50 monthly high records have been shattered. The weather bureau indicates that temperatures could climb even higher this weekend.

California has seen significant rises in temperatures as it heads into the weekend, with Death Valley hitting a record monthly high of 105 degrees on Thursday. Projections show that triple-digit highs will persist into next week, according to the National Weather Service.

Southern Nevada has also been experiencing summer-like conditions. Las Vegas recorded 96 degrees on Saturday and is forecasted to reach 93 degrees on Sunday. In response, more than 40 cooling stations have opened across the city to assist residents in coping with the extreme heat.

“Southern Nevada is accustomed to extreme heat, but we’re facing an unprecedented heat wave months before summer,” stated Clark County Commissioner Marilyn Kirkpatrick. The statement emphasizes that residents are not yet acclimated to such high temperatures, raising the risk of heat-related illnesses.

The Las Vegas branch of the National Weather Service is advising individuals to take necessary precautions to prevent heatstroke.

“When outdoors, remember to use sunscreen, consume light snacks, and steer clear of caffeine and alcohol,” the Bureau of Meteorology advised in a tweet.

Fort Collins, Colorado, reached a remarkable 91 degrees on Saturday, marking its highest March temperature since record-keeping began in 1893. This peak was two degrees higher than the historical April high in Fort Collins, as highlighted by the National Weather Service.

“Before 2026, the city hadn’t recorded a March high exceeding 81 degrees Fahrenheit,” stated the NWS Boulder office on X.

Denver also hit a new March record, reaching 86 degrees on Saturday. This extreme heat, combined with low humidity and strong winds, heightens the risk of wildfires across Colorado.

This week’s historic heat wave is attributed to a heat dome, a persistent ridge of high pressure that traps hot air over large areas in the western U.S., akin to a lid on a pot.

While it’s challenging to directly link specific extreme weather events to climate change, evidence shows that global warming is increasing the frequency, intensity, and duration of heat waves.

A recent report by the World Weather Attribution group indicates that this March’s heatwave “would have been virtually impossible without anthropogenic climate change.”

Numerous popular hiking trails in Phoenix were closed due to temperatures reaching 105 degrees on Friday and Saturday, setting a record for March. These closures were initiated earlier than usual to protect public safety.

The Phoenix Trail Thermal Safety Program, established in 2021, restricts access to local trails when a National Weather Service heat warning is active. This weekend, safeguards will be enforced at Camelback Mountain Preserve, Phoenix Mountain Preserve, and South Mountain Park and Preserve from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

A heat warning remains in effect for the region until Sunday. The Maricopa County Public Health Department advises residents to stay indoors in air-conditioned spaces throughout the extreme heat event.

“Stay hydrated, limit outdoor activities during peak heat, and check on vulnerable friends and family,” public health officials recommended in a Facebook post.

Outdoor events in the Phoenix area have been adjusted due to the heat. For instance, at least 10 Major League Baseball spring training games have rescheduled their start times to after 6 p.m. local time in order to avoid the extreme afternoon temperatures typical of the Cactus League announced in a statement.

The Glendale fire department reported that approximately 30 individuals were transported to nearby hospitals for heat-related issues during the Luke Days Air Show.

“Aside from these transports, our personnel attended to many others on-site suffering from heat-related symptoms,” a spokesperson from the Glendale Fire Department communicated to NBC News via email.

On Sunday, temperatures across the Southwest will hover between the 90s and 100 degrees, with the 80s expected in parts of Utah, Idaho, Wyoming, Colorado, and New Mexico. The Great Plains will experience highs ranging from the 70s to the 90s, according to the National Weather Service.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Heatwave Causes Record-Breaking Collapses in the Western U.S.

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This week, an early-season heatwave has shattered multiple temperature records in California and Arizona, hitting unprecedented highs on Wednesday and Thursday.

Summer-like weather conditions are anticipated to persist and extend towards the eastern regions.

Currently, nearly 38 million individuals in Southern California and the desert Southwest are under heat warnings, with temperatures regularly reaching the low 90s and even exceeding 100 degrees. This extreme heat is attributed to a massive heat dome that remains stagnant over the Western U.S.

In Palm Springs, California, Thursday’s temperature soared to an astonishing 107 degrees Fahrenheit, marking a new record for March. The previous record of 105 was set just a day earlier.

Additionally, the Coachella Valley city of Indio experienced record-breaking temperatures, reaching 108 degrees on Thursday—the highest ever recorded for March.

California witnessed numerous daily records, including a Thursday high of 101 degrees in Riverside. The day prior, a high of 95 degrees was established. Anaheim saw 88 degrees, while Sacramento recorded 85 degrees, according to the National Weather Service (NWS).

Over in Yuma County, Arizona, temperatures reached a remarkable 110 degrees on Thursday, setting a new record for the hottest March temperature ever recorded in the U.S., as confirmed by the National Weather Service.

Phoenix also recorded a high of 102 degrees on Wednesday, marking the earliest occurrence of triple-digit temperatures. On Thursday, temperatures escalated to 104 degrees.

“This is not just the first 100-degree day of 2026 but also the earliest recorded in Phoenix—previously occurring on March 26, 1988,” the NWS field office noted in a post on Wednesday.

Looking ahead, Phoenix is expected to see temperatures reach 106 degrees on Friday and Saturday, with a heatwave warning in effect until Sunday.

Las Vegas is also experiencing a surge in temperatures, setting a new March record of 95 degrees on Thursday. Local offices of the NWS predict temperatures could soar to 100 degrees on Friday, as reported by officials.

Regions in Oregon, Idaho, and Wyoming are also witnessing unusually warm conditions. The NWS office in Boise recorded a high of 80 degrees on Wednesday afternoon, marking the earliest date in history to reach that temperature since records began in 1875.

According to the NWS, this also marks only the second time Boise has reached 80 degrees in March since March 19, 1997, as stated in a post on X.

The extreme heat is forecasted to intensify over the weekend, moving eastward into the Rocky Mountains and the South-Central Plains.

“High temperatures are predicted to remain in the mid to upper 90s across Texas, while areas as far north as Nebraska and South Dakota could experience temperatures in the low to mid 90s,” the NWS stated on Thursday.

Skiers on the snowy slopes of Breckenridge Ski Resort in Colorado donned lighter attire as temperatures soared to 50 degrees on Wednesday.
Michael Ciaglo/Getty Images

In Colorado, new temperature records are on the horizon, with Friday’s forecasted highs at 84 degrees in Denver, 86 degrees in Fort Collins, and 83 degrees in Boulder. The NWS has warned of increasing temperatures over the weekend.

This week’s heatwave is driven by a persistent ridge of high pressure that effectively traps hot air over the western United States.

While assessing the exact impacts of climate change on specific weather patterns is complex, it’s evident that global warming will lead to more frequent, intense, and prolonged heatwaves.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Record-Breaking Early Heatwave Hits California and the Southwest

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This week, much of the western United States is experiencing a summer-like heatwave in March, with temperatures soaring across California and the Southwest, raising significant climate concerns.

Forecasters predict high temperatures exceeding 90 degrees Fahrenheit will blanket Southern California and reach triple digits in parts of Arizona and Nevada. On Monday, about 39 million residents were placed under heat warnings, with expectations for the heatwave to intensify as the week progresses.

The National Weather Service attributes this “unusually rapid” heatwave to a unique atmospheric pattern characterized by a dome of high pressure settling over the West, trapping heat and humidity.

“We anticipate daily record ties and new records emerging throughout Southern California, the desert Southwest, and the Great Basin over the next few days,” the agency noted in their Monday short-term forecast. “These rising temperatures are paving the way for even more extreme and widespread record heat later this week.”

In Los Angeles, temperatures are expected to reach the mid to upper 90s this week, peaking at 98 degrees on Thursday. In Phoenix, readings could soar to 105 degrees by Thursday, while southern Nevada cities might hit 107 degrees, marking an exceptionally hot start to the year.

“Temperatures will be more than 20 degrees above normal, making it feel more like early June than mid-March,” the Las Vegas Weather Bureau stated in a recent post on X.

Cities likely to break monthly temperature records in the coming days include San Francisco, Los Angeles, Sacramento, and Palm Springs in California, alongside Phoenix and Tucson in Arizona, Las Vegas, Salt Lake City, Albuquerque, Colorado Springs, and Denver in Colorado.

Heat domes occur when a powerful, persistent area of high pressure hovers over land, effectively trapping hot air.

This week’s heatwave is especially concerning due to its unusual timing and extended duration. The Bureau of Meteorology cautioned that this heat dome might be “one of the strongest we’ve observed for this time of year,” with little relief expected until late next week.

While linking specific extreme weather events directly to climate change remains challenging, studies indicate that heatwaves are becoming more frequent, intense, and prolonged as global temperatures rise.

Extended periods of extreme heat pose significant risks to vulnerable populations, including children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions, especially as they adjust to summer-like climates.

The National Weather Service San Diego office warned, “Moderate to severe heat risk is expected. Please stay safe, especially for those without air conditioning. Avoid outdoor activities during peak heating hours.” They shared this announcement via X on Sunday.

This March heatwave has further worsened the West’s ongoing snow drought, diminishing the region’s already low snowpack and increasing concerns about wildfire risks and water availability for the upcoming months.

As the West faces soaring temperatures, a major winter storm is impacting the upper Midwest and Upper Great Lakes, with heavy snowfall anticipated in Wisconsin and Michigan on Monday. More than 120 million residents from the Mississippi Valley to New England also face wind warnings, with potential for damaging winds and tornadoes in areas like Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Washington, D.C.

Simultaneously, Hawaii has been battered by a powerful atmospheric river, bringing continuous rain and resulting in widespread flash flooding and landslides over the past five days.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Heatwave has led to critical blood shortage for Red Cross

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The American Red Cross is currently dealing with a critical shortage of blood as the nation’s blood supply has decreased by more than 25% since July 1.

Extreme heat and temperatures adversely affected almost 100 blood drives last month in almost every state where the Red Cross collects blood. This weather either decreased attendance at events or led to cancellations.

Blood donations usually decrease during the summer due to travel and seasonal activities, but the Red Cross stated that the extreme heat worsened the situation, resulting in a shortfall of over 19,000 donations in July.

As a consequence, blood is being sent to hospitals faster than donations can be collected.

Donated blood is crucial for various life-saving medical procedures such as surgery, childbirth, and treatment for patients with pregnancy complications, trauma, cancer, and blood disorders, according to the Red Cross.

Nurse Melissa Destros, who works at a Detroit hospital, emphasized the importance of blood for patients in need, particularly new moms and babies. The Red Cross said in a statement that she has witnessed moms requiring massive blood transfusions after childbirth.

The Red Cross urgently requires donors of all blood types, especially type O blood, as it is always in short supply. O-positive is the most common blood type, and O-negative is crucial for emergency transfusions.

Dr. Barry Siegfried, the medical director for the Michigan Red Cross, highlighted the importance of type O blood for emergency care. He stated that donors of all blood types are essential to ensure hospitals have sufficient blood for patient care.

Similarly, Connecticut declared a statewide blood emergency last week due to supplies dropping to less than half of what is typically needed for hospital demand. The Connecticut Blood Center specifically needs emergency donations of type O negative and type O positive blood. NBC Connecticut reported.

Both the Red Cross and the Connecticut Blood Center can help individuals locate local blood drives and donation centers. Red Cross Blood Or call 1-800-RED-CROSS.

If you donate by Aug. 31, the Red Cross will give you a $20 Amazon gift card.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Why a mild heatwave in the UK feels worse than in the US

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As the UK is currently experiencing another intense heatwave, many are questioning why the high temperatures feel particularly unbearable compared to other parts of the world.

Despite facing the same scorching sun and global warming trends, the heat in the UK seems to have a unique impact, leading some to wonder if there are other factors at play beyond just the temperature on the thermometer.

With temperatures reaching around 30°C, the British heatwave seems extreme when compared to climate change-induced wildfires in the US and Europe.

Before dismissing this as a common British complaint, it’s important to acknowledge that scientific evidence proves the severity of the heatwave in the UK.

“Heatwaves are subjective events, with different countries interpreting them based on people’s average expectations,” explained climate expert Professor Hannah Croke in an interview with BBC Science Focus.

Professor Croke emphasized that factors like humidity, wind speed, and temperature all play a role in how a heatwave is experienced and perceived by individuals.

Something is floating in the air

The UK’s island geography means that it is surrounded by water, which leads many to assume it would help cool down the country. However, the presence of cold water can actually have the opposite effect.

Meteorologists like Dr. Matthew Patterson explain that the UK’s climate, influenced by moist marine air, affects how heat is lost from the body through radiation, conduction, convection, and evaporation.

Evaporation plays a key role in cooling the body, but high moisture levels in the air can decrease its effectiveness. Wind speed also impacts evaporation, with strong winds aiding in cooling the body.

Indices like Feels Like Temperature and the Universal Temperature Index (UTCI) are used to predict how temperature, humidity, and wind speed will affect individuals during a heatwave.

UK homes not fit for purpose

The design of UK homes, coupled with the lack of standard air conditioning, poses a challenge during heatwaves. The majority of UK homes are not equipped to deal with extreme heat due to their design and age.

Historically, UK homes were built to allow sunlight in, which can lead to higher indoor temperatures. In contrast, European and American homes often have external shutters to block out heat.

As temperatures continue to rise due to climate change, the design and construction of UK homes will need to adapt to better cope with heatwaves. Lack of understanding on how to keep homes cool during hot weather exacerbates the issue.

About our experts

Hannah Croke OBE is a British hydrologist and Professor of Hydrology at the University of Reading. She has received numerous awards for her work in flood forecasting and risk management.

Matt Patterson is a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the University of Reading, with interests in atmospheric dynamics, seasonal prediction, and climate change.

Read more:

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Heatwave strikes California and other areas along the West Coast

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The West Coast is facing a dangerous heatwave that is expected to peak on Saturday, putting people at risk of health issues long after temperatures reach their highest point. According to a national update on Friday, forecasters anticipate that a wide range of temperature records will be broken or tied, with temperatures in California expected to reach the 110s on Saturday. The hot weather will persist well into the following week, raising concerns about health risks such as heart attacks and heat strokes, especially among older adults and individuals with chronic diseases.

At Sunrise Farm near Coachella, California on July 3rd.Mario Tama/Getty Images

The heatwave is expected to persist for more than a week, prompting warnings from the National Weather Service about record-breaking temperatures in California, Oregon, and Washington. Areas like the Sacramento Valley, at the heart of the heat wave, are under warning until at least next Tuesday. Meteorologists predict some relief early next week, but temperatures are still likely to exceed 100 degrees in certain regions.

Heat-related illnesses, including heat stroke, pose a significant risk during prolonged periods of extreme heat. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data shows a sharp increase in heatstroke-related emergency room visits, with the incidence more than doubling in recent days. In regions like the San Joaquin Valley in California, extreme weather conditions are expected daily next week, impacting medical facilities and infrastructure.

A construction worker in Folsom, California, on July 3.David Paul Morris/Bloomberg via Getty Images

In Portland, Oregon, health officials are concerned about residents unaccustomed to hot weather, particularly those attending outdoor events this weekend. Temperatures in Death Valley may reach deadly limits, posing risks even to healthy individuals. Experts emphasize the importance of staying hydrated and cool to prevent heat-related illnesses.

Research on the physiological limits of heat exposure indicates that older adults may succumb to heatstroke within hours when exposed to extreme heat, even indoors or in the shade without air conditioning. As temperatures continue to rise, it’s crucial to take precautions and monitor vulnerable populations to prevent heat-related fatalities.

“Understanding the impact of heatwaves on our health is vital to mitigating the risks and protecting communities,” said Dr. Lisa Patel. Stay aware of local heat advisories and follow safety guidelines to stay safe during the ongoing heatwave.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Paris heatwave raises concerns for Olympic hopefuls

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summary

  • A group of Olympic hopefuls has expressed concern about the heat during the games in Paris.
  • Olympic organizers say they are preparing for tough conditions, including scheduling events to avoid heat.
  • A study has found that Paris is one of the European capitals most vulnerable to heatstroke concerns.
  • Heatwaves could cause temperatures to rise by up to seven degrees Celsius since 2003 A study published in November.

Leading up to the Paris Olympics, athletes are raising concerns about the scorching summer temperatures and the impact of climate change on their competitiveness and safety in sports.

In a recent report by climate advocacy and sports organizations in the UK and US, 11 athletes have highlighted the environmental challenges at the upcoming Olympics and the long-term implications for sporting competitions in a warming world.

Report The average temperature in Paris during the Olympics is projected to be over 5.5 degrees higher than in 1924, the last time the city hosted the event.

Athlete Jamie Ferndale, a former GB Olympic rugby sevens team member, expressed concerns about the extreme heat in Paris potentially affecting athletes’ performance.

“When temperatures reach 30 to 35 degrees Celsius, it becomes quite dangerous,” Ferndale said. “With six games in three days, athletes don’t have enough time to cool off between matches.”

Olympic organizers are taking measures to combat the heat, scheduling events strategically to minimize exposure and implementing heat-response tools to ensure safety, according to an International Olympic Committee spokesperson.

Local organizers for Paris 2024 have stated that France’s meteorological service will be closely monitoring temperatures, and adjustments to competition dates can be made if needed. Free water will also be available to spectators to help combat the heat.

Paris, being one of the European capitals most vulnerable to heat waves, is focusing on reducing the carbon footprint of the Olympics. Geothermal cooling and natural ventilation will be used in the athletes’ village, which will serve as permanent housing post-Olympics.

Athlete Pragnya Mohan raised concerns about the lack of air conditioning potentially affecting athletes’ recovery rate. However, the Paris 2024 committee assured that temperatures in athlete accommodations would be significantly lower than outside, and portable cooling units would be available for rent.

Discus thrower Sam Mathis questioned the feasibility of hosting Summer Olympics during the hottest times of the year, considering the challenges posed by extreme heat. Research has shown that heat-related illnesses have affected athletes in past Olympics, prompting the need for climate-conscious measures.

Investments in sustainable practices, such as cleaning up the Seine, building bike lanes, and planting shade trees, demonstrate Paris’ commitment to reducing emissions and adapting to future climate challenges.

Deputy Mayor Emmanuel Gregoire stressed the urgency of making changes to protect people from the dangers of extreme heat in everyday life.

Source: www.nbcnews.com