July Sets US Heat Record as Nationwide Heatwaves Persist

NOAA data show July was the hottest month on record for the contiguous United States, averaging 3.3F above the 20th‑century average and surpassing all prior July/month records back to 1895. Three heat dome events drove extreme temperatures, with Wyoming recording its hottest July. Widespread wildfire smoke and heat-related disruptions affected daily life, and scientists link the trend to human-caused climate change. An ongoing strong El Niño could push global temperatures to new highs next year, potentially breaking more records as emissions continue.