Phoenix on Track to Break Record as First Major U.S. City with Average Monthly Temperature Above 100 Degrees
The heatwave in the Southwest has reached unprecedented levels this July, with Phoenix, Arizona, on its way to becoming the first major U.S. city to achieve an average monthly temperature higher than 100 degrees. This is not just an average high temperature, but an overall average that includes both highs and lows.
As of July 20, the average high for the month in Phoenix is a scorching 114.4 degrees, with an average low of 90.4 degrees. This gives an overall monthly average of 102.4 degrees for July so far. The city is currently running 3.3 degrees hotter than the previous hottest month on record, surpassing previous records by tenths of a degree.
While Phoenix is leading the way, there are a few other populated places that have reached similar temperatures. The next largest city to achieve this feat before this year had a population of about 58,000 people.
According to data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), some smaller cities that have experienced monthly average temperatures of 100 degrees or higher include Death Valley, California, with 108.1 degrees in July 2018, Lake Havasu City, Arizona, with 102.2 degrees in July 1996, and Needles, California, with 100.9 degrees in July 2006. Lake Havasu City, located on the California-Arizona border, is a popular tourist destination known for its hot temperatures and is the next-largest city after Phoenix to achieve an average monthly temperature of 100 degrees or greater.
Phoenix came close to reaching the 100-degree-plus monthly average in August 2020, with a monthly reading of 99.1 degrees. However, this year’s July temperatures are expected to surpass that record and become the hottest month on record for the city.
Comparing Phoenix’s temperatures to other notably hot U.S. cities, the current average for July 2023 is projected to be 102.7 degrees, significantly higher than the hottest recorded months in Las Vegas, Dallas, Shreveport, Houston, and Miami.
The extreme heat in Phoenix is not only breaking records but also posing significant risks to residents and animals. The lack of cooling at night makes the situation even more dangerous, as there is no relief from the scorching temperatures. Staying in air-conditioned spaces has become a basic requirement for survival.
Unfortunately, there is no relief in sight for the residents of Phoenix and the surrounding region. The Weather Service’s Climate Prediction Center forecasts that above-normal conditions will persist through August, prolonging the major heatwave.
As the temperatures continue to rise, it is crucial for individuals to take necessary precautions to stay safe and cool during this unprecedented heatwave.
What are some of the health risks associated with the extreme heat in Phoenix during this heatwave?
Around 20,000. However, Phoenix’s population is over 1.7 million, making it the first major U.S. city to experience such extreme heat on a monthly average basis.
The scorching temperatures have been attributed to a combination of factors, including a major heat dome settling over the region and climate change. The heat dome acts as a lid, trapping hot air and preventing cool air from moving in and providing relief. Climate change has also contributed to rising temperatures globally, making heatwaves like this more frequent and intense.
The extreme heat poses significant health risks to the residents of Phoenix. Heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke are more common during these conditions, and vulnerable populations, such as the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions, are particularly at risk. Officials have issued heat advisories and warnings, urging residents to stay hydrated, avoid unnecessary outdoor activities, and seek shelter in air-conditioned spaces.
In addition to the health risks, the heatwave has also strained the region’s power grid. The high demand for electricity to power air conditioning units has led to power outages and the threat of rolling blackouts. To prevent further strain on the system, residents have been encouraged to conserve energy by reducing their electricity usage and avoiding unnecessary energy consumption during peak hours.
The unprecedented heatwave in Phoenix serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need to address climate change and its impact on extreme weather events. This record-breaking temperature trend highlights the importance of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and transitioning to cleaner and more sustainable energy sources.
Efforts to mitigate the effects of extreme heat in cities like Phoenix include implementing heat-resilient infrastructure, increasing access to cooling centers for vulnerable populations, and promoting urban greening initiatives that can help reduce temperatures in urban heat islands.
As the heatwave continues to grip the Southwest, it is essential for residents to prioritize their health and safety. Staying informed about weather updates, following recommended precautions, and supporting initiatives to combat climate change are crucial steps in adapting to this new normal of extreme heat.
Wow, Phoenix is scorching! Breaking the record and becoming the first U.S. city with a 100-degree monthly average is quite a feat. Climate change’s impact on the desert city is undeniable, and this achievement highlights the urgent need for climate action. Stay cool, Phoenix!
“Phoenix’s potential record-breaking feat showcases the escalating impact of climate change. As temperatures soar, urgent action is needed to address the long-term consequences and protect our cities from extreme weather conditions.”