Summer in the Northern Hemisphere is fast approaching, and temperatures are already soaring in some parts of the southwest. Cities in this region are experiencing extreme heat, with temperatures exceeding 38 degrees Celsius or 100 degrees Fahrenheit. The situation is expected to persist in the coming days, according to meteorologists.
Recent days have seen record-breaking temperatures in cities like Las Vegas and Phoenix, with some areas hitting 110 degrees Fahrenheit for the first time this season. While the extreme heat is expected to ease slightly over the weekend, temperatures are still well above average. Palm Springs is forecasted to reach 102 degrees, Las Vegas 103 degrees, and by Tuesday, temperatures could climb back up to 110 degrees in Phoenix, Las Vegas, and Palm Springs.
Not only are daytime temperatures soaring, but overnight lows are also remaining unseasonably warm. Cities like Salt Lake City are experiencing temperatures in the 90s, while Las Vegas is seeing triple digits. Overnight lows are hovering in the upper 70s and low 80s, providing little relief from the scorching daytime heat.
Climate data reveals a concerning trend of increasing temperatures during the summer months. Since 1970, Las Vegas has experienced a 5.6-degree rise in average summer temperatures, leading to more warm and above-average days. The summer season has become more extreme and prolonged, with 39 additional warm days recorded since 1970.
One of the most alarming trends is the significant increase in overnight temperatures. Since 1970, overnight lows have surged by nearly 10 degrees on average. This lack of cooling off at night poses health risks, as the body struggles to recover from the daytime heat exposure.
As temperatures continue to rise across the U.S., the overnight warming trend is outpacing the daytime temperature increase. This shift in climate patterns underscores the urgent need for adaptation and mitigation strategies to combat the escalating heat levels.
