As Predictable As the Summer Solstice.....
... is the appearance of MSM articles calling the current summer heat "the new normal" or similar phraseology.
These articles appear even though earlier decades (1930's and 1950's during the past 100 years) were hotter and drier. I have highlighted the heatwave intensity during the 1930's, below. Compare it to more recent times.
The extreme drought in the Southwest continues unabated. Drought has worsened the past few weeks in the northern Great Plains and northern Rockies regions.
There is clearly no upward trend in heatwaves in the United States.
As to drought, the latest Palmer Drought Index map is below.
However, Mother Nature can produce far worse than current drought conditions without any assist from climate change. Below is the Palmer from July, 1934. The "Dust Bowl Drought" extended from nearly coast to coast. It was not merely confined to the Great Plains.
Yes, it has been a hot start to summer with many daily records sent. But, so far, 2025 does not compare to some of the great heatwaves of the past.
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