The scorching heatwave that has gripped the city of Phoenix, Arizona has shattered records, with daytime highs exceeding 37°C (100°F) for over 80 consecutive days. This extreme heat has become the new norm for this summer, as temperatures remain high even into the night, as depicted in an image from June 5. The relentless heatwave in Phoenix is just one example of the global trend of soaring temperatures that has persisted for the past 14 months.
According to the latest global climate report from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), July marked the 14th consecutive month of record-breaking heat. This unprecedented streak has set a new record, surpassing the previous 12-month hot streak from May 2015 to May 2016. The impact of this prolonged period of high temperatures is significant, with only a few other hot streaks in the last 175 years coming close in terms of duration.
The occurrence of these heatwaves is often associated with natural climate phenomena such as El Niño and La Niña. El Niño, characterized by warm surface waters in the tropical Pacific Ocean, can temporarily elevate global temperatures. In contrast, La Niña involves the cooling of these surface waters, leading to a transient global cooling effect. The most recent El Niño ended in May, and the tropical Pacific is currently in a neutral state, with neither El Niño nor La Niña in effect.
While natural climate cycles play a role in temperature fluctuations, human-induced climate change is a significant factor driving the rise in global temperatures. Climatologist Karin Gleason of NOAA’s National Centers for Environmental Information points out that temperatures have been steadily climbing since the mid-1970s, with fluctuations occurring due to events like El Niño and La Niña. However, the overall trend is an upward trajectory, indicating the impact of human activities on the climate.
In an interview with Science News, Gleason sheds light on the ongoing global heat streak and addresses some key questions about the future of climate trends. One pressing question is when the current hot streak will come to an end. Gleason explains that a La Niña is forecasted for this fall, signaling a shift from warming to cooling conditions. Depending on the intensity of this transition, the streak is expected to end within the next several months.
Despite the end of El Niño in May, the hot streak has persisted due to a lag in the planet’s response to changing climate conditions. Gleason highlights the surprising speed at which temperatures escalated at the end of last summer and emphasizes the unexpected persistence of record warm Atlantic Ocean waters. These factors have contributed to the prolonged heatwave that has been challenging cities like Phoenix and impacting global temperatures.
Looking ahead, Gleason anticipates the possibility of another hot streak emerging in the future, driven by the ongoing trend of rising temperatures. With the unpredictability of events like El Niño, there is a likelihood of multiple consecutive months setting new temperature records globally. The impact of climate change on extreme heat events is evident, underscoring the need for collective action to mitigate its effects.
As readers engage with questions about climate change and extreme heat, Gleason emphasizes the importance of collective efforts to address the challenges posed by rising temperatures. While there may not be a definitive point of no return, every action taken to combat climate change can make a difference in shaping a sustainable future. The urgency of the situation calls for proactive measures to limit the escalation of temperatures and mitigate the impact of climate change on the planet.
In conclusion, the ongoing global heat streak highlights the complex interplay of natural climate cycles and human-induced climate change. As temperatures continue to rise, understanding the factors driving these trends is crucial for developing effective strategies to combat climate change. By staying informed and taking action to reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainability, individuals and communities can contribute to a healthier planet for future generations.
