NOAA and Weather Company Forecast Scorching Summer for U.S., Raising Drought and Wildfire Concerns

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and The Weather Company have forecasted warmer-than-average summer temperatures for nearly the entire United States, with the Northeast and West regions most likely to experience unusual heat. This forecast raises concerns about potential drought and wildfires in the Plains and Rockies.

The forecast is based on factors such as the waning El Niño and developing La Niña climate patterns, as well as long-term trends of above-normal temperatures, especially in the northeastern U.S. No part of the contiguous U.S. is expected to have cooler-than-average temperatures this summer.

While the Eastern Seaboard may see a soggy summer, a drier-than-average summer is expected across much of the Plains and Rockies, which combined with the heat could exacerbate drought conditions and increase the risk of wildfires in the West. "The emerging La Niña climate pattern is expected to influence weather patterns, resulting in significant heat waves that could challenge record temperatures in the western U.S. and southeast Canada," NOAA stated.

The only region that may see close to average temperatures is the Upper Midwest. However, the rest of the country is set for one of the warmest summers on record, potentially outpacing previous records set in 2021 and 1936.

Why this matters: The forecast of a scorching summer across the U.S. has significant implications for public health, agriculture, and the environment. The combination of extreme heat and dry conditions could lead to severe drought and an increased risk of wildfires, particularly in the Plains and Rockies regions, which may strain emergency response resources and impact local communities.

In preparation for the expected heat wave, experts advise limiting exposure to the sun, staying hydrated, and avoiding leaving children or pets unattended in vehicles. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) spokesperson noted that the risk of extreme temperatures, heat waves, and record-breaking high temperatures is increasing due to climate change, with certain groups, such as the elderly, infants, and individuals with disabilities or taking certain medications, at greater risk of heat-related illnesses.

Key Takeaways

• NOAA and The Weather Company forecast warmer-than-average summer temperatures across the US.
• The Northeast and West regions are most likely to experience unusual heat.
• Drought and wildfires are expected to increase in the Plains and Rockies regions.
• Only the Upper Midwest may see close-to-average temperatures this summer.
• Extreme heat and dry conditions pose risks to public health, agriculture, and the environment.