The record for the hottest day on Earth was broken on July 21. The next day, the record was broken again. This year is almost certain to be the hottest year on record globally.
what's happening?
This summer has been extremely hot so far. The continental United States had the 11th hottest July on record. July was the hottest month on record in California. June and July combined made this the second hottest summer on record for the United States.
Record-breaking heat seemed to be a daily occurrence in our country during the first two months of summer. August is off to a hot start as well, with the record high temperature exceeding the record low temperature by nearly seven times.
The extreme heat has been felt around the world. The Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S) reported that the planet experienced its first and second hottest days on record. According to the National Centers for Environmental Information, July was the 14th consecutive hottest month on record globally.
“2024 is increasingly likely to be warmer than 2023 and become the warmest year on record,” the C3S July report noted.
Why does this record-breaking global heat wave matter?
Last year was the warmest year on Earth's record, according to Copernicus and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. In 2023, the number of deaths from heatstroke is the highest ever. The World Meteorological Organization says extreme heat is the most deadly form of extreme weather. People with high exposure to heat, such as emergency responders, athletes, outdoor workers and the homeless, are among the most vulnerable groups.
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The Earth is overheating, with heat-trapping gases causing temperatures to rise. Global warming increases the risk of heatstroke and death from heat stroke. A new study finds that between 1993 and 2017, more than 2 million preterm births (between 28 and 37 weeks) and nearly 6 million preterm births (between 37 and 39 weeks) were linked to heat waves.
What measures are being taken to combat the record-breaking heatwaves?
The American Red Cross says it's important to stay hydrated during extreme heat. They say the average person needs about three-quarters of a gallon of water per day. They recommend making a plan to stay cool before the heat hits. That plan could include spending at least a few hours a day in an air-conditioned room, wearing light, loose-fitting clothing, and creating a support team of people who need help or can help.
Ditching polluting energy sources and switching to clean, renewable energy sources is essential to cooling the planet. Modernizing your home by switching to solar energy, upgrading to LED light bulbs, and unplugging energy-wasting devices are ways to reduce your reliance on dirty energy.
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