The planet is experiencing an unprecedented heatwave, with record-breaking temperatures reported across the globe this week.
Across the northern hemisphere, the past seven days have witnessed some of the most extreme temperatures ever recorded.
Vast zones of high atmospheric pressure across the northern latitudes have driven these extreme conditions.
According to the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation, the heatwave has been linked to at least 33 fatalities in southern Quebec, primarily in and around Montreal, where temperatures reached unprecedented highs.
In northern Siberia, along the Arctic Ocean coast, analyses indicate temperatures soared more than 22°C (40°F) above normal. While no single data point can be directly attributed to global warming, such temperature anomalies align with the expected consequences of a warming planet. Here are some of the most notable heat records set recently.
Unusual Heat In North America
A massive dome of high pressure has blanketed two-thirds of the United States and southeastern Canada for the past week. The heat has been compounded by high humidity, making conditions even more oppressive.
- Denver matched its all-time high of 40.5°C (105°F) on June 28.
- Mount Washington equaled its record warmest minimum temperature of 15.5°C (60°F) on July 2.
- Burlington established a new record for warmest overnight low at 26.6°C (80°F).
- Montreal shattered its previous record with a high of 36.6°C (97.9°F).
Unusual Heat In Europe & Asia
Europe and Asia have also endured extreme temperatures this week, as a high-pressure system settled over both continents. The United Kingdom was particularly affected, with roads and roofs buckling under the intense heat.
- Scotland surpassed its previous record of 32.9°C (91.2°F) with a new high of 33.2°C (91.8°F).
- In Northern Ireland, Belfast recorded an all-time high of 29.5°C (85.1°F), while Castlederg set a new record of 30.1°C (86.2°F).
- In Asia, Tbilisi, Georgia's capital, hit a blistering 40.5°C (104.9°F).
- Yerevan, Armenia's capital, set a July record of 42°C (107.6°F).
- In April, Pakistan reported the hottest temperature ever recorded on Earth for that month: 50.2°C (122.4°F).
► What do these extraordinary temperatures signify?
They may be a result of global warming, or a combination of factors. What is certain is that the planet is steadily heating up.
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