The United States is concluding a sweltering July that appears set to become the warmest month on record for the contiguous states. National temperatures for the month have averaged approximately 2.5 degrees Fahrenheit above historical norms, putting the country on track to surpass the previous record established in July 2012. This extreme heat has been driven by persistent atmospheric conditions known as heat domes, which act as high-pressure lids that trap hot air over specific regions for extended periods, preventing any meaningful cooling.
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July 2026 Poised to Become Hottest Month on Record in the United States
Published August 2, 2026 at 6:02 AM UTC