Nearly half of the U.S. will experience heat influenced by climate change on August 2nd

Nearly half of Americans are expected to experience heat made at least three times more likely because of climate change on Friday, August 2, 2024. This climate change-fueled heat will affect much of the U.S. and extend into Canada and Mexico, from July 31 through August 8, 2024.

Climate Shift Index exposure approaches record

Based on current temperature forecasts, a record-breaking 148 million Americans are expected to experience CSI values of 3 or higher on August 2nd. That means their local temperatures would be made at least 3 times more likely because of climate change.

How unusual is the forecasted heat?

• Hazardous heat conditions are projected from the Rocky Mountains to the southeastern and Mid-Atlantic United States, with late-week and weekend high temperatures reaching the mid-to-upper 90s and low 100s (°F).

• The National Weather Service forecasts several days of Major to Extreme Heat Risk, from the Central Plains to the southeastern United States, increasing the likelihood of health impacts for individuals without proper hydration and cooling.

• High humidity combined with excessive temperatures will lead to dangerous heat index values. Feels-like conditions exceeding 110°F are forecasted across the Great Plains, Mississippi Valley, and southeastern United States.

• The significant heat dome responsible for these high temperatures is expected to expand across a majority of the Lower 48 states through the first week of August.

Note: This event may continue beyond August 8th. Use the Global Climate Shift Index map to stay updated on heat in your region.