According to meteorologists, Many regions are currently facing above-average temperatures, primarily attributed to global warming.
Global Temperature Trends
While some areas are experiencing cooler conditions, far more regions are enduring significantly warmer temperatures. Chris Fawkes from BBC Weather describes these heatwaves as “the fingerprint of climate change.”
The Dangers of Extreme Heat
Extreme heat poses serious risks; for instance, the 2003 European heatwave resulted in 30,000 deaths. Prolonged periods of high temperatures can also increase the likelihood of wildfires, which have already erupted in parts of California.
Affected Regions
Currently, swathes of North America, southern and eastern Asia, and southeastern Europe are grappling with extreme temperatures. Approximately one in five Americans—over 70 million people—are under warnings for excessive heat as high pressure creates a “heat dome” that traps warm air.
Warnings are also in effect across four Canadian provinces: New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Ontario, and Quebec. US weather officials predict temperatures could surpass 38°C (100°F) later this week.
Storms and Flooding
While much of the continent deals with extreme heat, Mexico and southern Texas are facing the first named storm of the North Atlantic hurricane season. Tragically, three fatalities have been reported along the Mexican coast. The US National Hurricane Center has cautioned about “life-threatening” flooding and mudslides in northeastern Mexico and southern Texas.
Heatwave in India
Northern India is currently enduring a weeks-long heatwave, with temperatures reaching 44-45°C (113°F). This prolonged heat has led to record-breaking power consumption as residents rely heavily on fans and air conditioning, resulting in power outages in Delhi. Water supplies in the city have also been affected.
Since the onset of summer in India in March, dozens have succumbed to the heat, with 50 deaths reported over a three-day period earlier this month in the states of Uttar Pradesh and Odisha. While summers in India are typically hot and humid, this year has seen exceptionally harsh conditions, characterized by longer, more intense, and frequent heat waves.