Contiguous U.S. broke its record for hottest month ever in July, NOAA says
Summary
The contiguous United States experienced its hottest July on record, with an average temperature of 76.89°F, surpassing the previous high set during the 1936 Dust Bowl. Scientists link the intense heat, especially warmer nights, to human-caused climate change driven by burning fossil fuels.Key Facts
- July 2026 was the hottest month ever recorded in the contiguous U.S. since records began in 1895.
- The average temperature was 76.89°F (24.94°C), beating the 1936 Dust Bowl record by 0.125°F.
- Every state in the Lower 48 was at least 1°F warmer than the 20th century average.
- The most extreme heat occurred in the Mountain West, Southwest, Northern Plains, and Southeast regions.
- Nighttime temperatures were especially high, breaking records for hottest minimum temperatures by 0.7°F.
- Scientists say hotter nights are a key sign of climate change caused by burning coal, oil, and gas.
- The years 2021 and 1936 remain tied as the hottest summers on record in the U.S. overall, but 2026 is close behind.
- Experts emphasize the need to reduce fossil fuel use and invest in adapting to new climate conditions.
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