July 2024 was a historic month for California, marking the hottest July ever recorded in the state. According to the National Centers for Environmental Information, the state’s average temperature soared to 81.7°F (27.6°C).
During this period, several regions experienced prolonged heat, with temperatures frequently surpassing 100°F (38°C). Notably, Palm Springs reached an extraordinary 124°F on July 5, and Redding recorded 119°F the following day.
Death Valley, known for its extreme heat, also saw unprecedented temperatures in July, cementing its status as the hottest place on Earth.
Similarly, Las Vegas, Nevada, reached 120°F on July 7, setting a new record for the city’s hottest day and marking a high number of days exceeding 115°F.
The Park Fire, fueled by extreme heat, is now the fourth largest in historyThe impacts of this intense heat have been widespread, affecting both the US and global climates. In July, approximately one-third of the US population was under heat warnings, and the Earth experienced its hottest day on record on July 22, surpassing the previous record set just a day earlier.
The extreme temperatures have exacerbated wildfire conditions, particularly in California. The high heat has dried out vegetation, fueling numerous fires across the state.
The Park Fire, ignited by suspected arson in Tehama County, has become the fourth-largest wildfire in California’s history. The Pacific Northwest has also faced severe heat and wildfires, with Oregon experiencing its highest acreage burned in 32 years.
Heatwaves are becoming more frequent, severe, and prolonged due to the climate crisis. Dr. Alexander Gershunov of the Scripps Institution of Oceanography notes that these extreme heat events are increasingly intense, attributing the trend to the effects of climate change.
As heatwaves grow more extreme, they pose significant health risks and challenge firefighting efforts, highlighting the urgent need for climate action and adaptation.