This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Heatwaves in the United States are prolonged periods of excessively hot weather, often accompanied by high humidity. They can have serious impacts on human health, infrastructure, and ecosystems. Heatwaves are most common in the summer but can occur at any time of year.
The regions of the United States most affected by heatwaves are typically the central and southern states, including parts of the Midwest, the South, and the Southwest. These regions often experience high temperatures and humidity levels during the summer, contributing to the intensity and duration of heat waves.
The map below created by @MetricMaps shows heat wave days by US Contiguous county from 1981 to 2010.
One of the strongest heatwaves ever recorded in the United States occurred in the summer of 1936. Dubbed the “Great Heat Wave of 1936,” this event affected much of the country, with temperatures exceeding 100°F (37.8°C) in many areas. The heatwave was particularly severe in the central United States, where temperatures soared to over 110°F (43.3°C) in some places. The extreme heat led to thousands of deaths, widespread crop failures, and significant stress on infrastructure such as power grids and transportation systems.
Climate change is expected to increase the frequency, intensity, and duration of heat waves in the United States and around the world. Rising global temperatures are already contributing to more frequent and severe heatwaves, with impacts ranging from increased heat-related illnesses and deaths to reduced agricultural productivity and strain on energy systems. As the climate continues to warm, the geographic distribution and strength of heatwaves are likely to shift, with some regions experiencing more frequent and intense heatwaves than others. Adaptation strategies, such as heatwave early warning systems and improved urban planning, will be crucial in mitigating the impacts of these events.
