A record-breaking heatwave is sweeping across the US and Canada, bringing extreme temperatures and poor air quality to millions of people. The high temperatures are expected to continue into Wednesday, with the US Midwest and Northeast bearing the brunt of the heat. Cities such as Boston, New York City, and Philadelphia are under heat advisories, with temperatures forecast to reach 100F in New York and 102F in Washington DC.
Extreme heat warnings have been in place across multiple Canadian provinces, including Ontario, Quebec, Manitoba, and the Northwest Territories. The Canadian city of Toronto saw temperatures rise to 98F, just short of record-breaking heat, while commuter trains were delayed due to weather-related track conditions. Environment Canada warned of deteriorating air quality due to hot and humid air.
Heatwave Impact
The heatwave has already broken all-time temperature records in parts of Montana and Utah, with the city of Billings reaching 111F and Salt Lake City reaching 109F. The northern Plains, Midwest, and Northeast will continue to experience high temperatures, with Chicago forecast to reach 97F on Wednesday. The heatwave comes after a record-breaking heatwave hit large portions of the US earlier this month, disrupting Fourth of July celebrations and resulting in at least 44 deaths.
Heatwaves have become more frequent, more intense, and longer-lasting due to human-induced climate change. The world has already warmed by about 1.1C since the industrial era began, and temperatures will keep rising unless governments make steep cuts to emissions. A cold front is expected to bring lower temperatures to central and eastern Canada, but will also bring the threat of severe thunderstorms.
What’s Next
As the heatwave continues to move east, millions of people are bracing for the worst. The US cities of Boston, New York City, and Philadelphia will remain under heat advisories until Wednesday, with temperatures expected to remain above the seasonal norm. The threat of severe thunderstorms will also affect parts of New England, with thundery conditions developing more widely across the east of North America by the weekend.
The heatwave serves as a stark reminder of the need for governments to take action to address climate change, as the world continues to experience more frequent and intense heatwaves. As the global temperature continues to rise, it is essential for individuals and governments to take steps to mitigate the effects of climate change and protect vulnerable populations.
