More Record Heat For US

We did it again. Those heat waves from June helped set temperature records.

“June was 3.3°F above the 20th century average of 68.5°F, beating the previous record set in 1933 by 0.2°F, according to NOAA data.” – Climate Central

The trend is expected to continue into July. While El Nino has an effect, estimates suggest the greatest effect is the increase in greenhouse gases, something that won’t change soon. As if the record for the lower 48 wasn’t worrisome enough, Alaska is heating up far faster.

“Alaska’s average temperature is a stunning 9°F above the 1925-2000 average for the January-June period. That bests the previous record warm January-June (in 1981) by 2.5°F.” – Climate Central

With the increased heat comes decreased snow and ice. With less snow and ice the ground and water soak up more heat rather than reflect it, further increasing the temperature. There is no discussion of any counter-balancing influences; so, the situation is likely to continue.

(Click on the graph for the link.)

“Heat Wave Lifts June To Record Hot Temp For US” – Climate Central