Heat Archives - NOAA Research

5 unexpected consequences of extreme heat

September 21, 2023

The climate crisis has been projected to bring changes to our world of unprecedented and unpredictable depth and range. From rising seas and stronger storms, to extreme heat and disease, we are experiencing changes that scientists have predicted for decades. But what about the unexpected consequences of extreme heat due to climate change? This summer was the hottest on record and the coolest it may ever be again. As the U.S. summer heat season finally wanes, we’ve compiled a short list of five consequences of living with extreme heat for everyone to think about as we look ahead to the 2024 heat season.

Air pollution from wildfires, rising heat affected two-thirds of U.S. West

January 14, 2022

Large wildfires and severe heat events are happening more often at the same time, worsening air pollution across the western United States, according to a …

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NOAA seeks applicants for 2022 urban heat island initiative

November 18, 2021

The campaigns involving community members and scientists will work to map the hottest areas of their communities to learn where action is needed to protect …

NOAA seeks applicants for 2022 urban heat island initiative Read More >

Photo of a thermometer with mercury rising past 100 degrees Fahrenheit in front of a city street backdrop

NOAA leads community scientists in mapping hottest parts of 13 U.S. cities this summer

June 3, 2020

Running barefoot from scorching asphalt to cool grass in the summertime as a kid, you likely learned how cityscapes tend to get much warmer than green spaces. Extreme heat can be fatal, and buildings and pavement increase its threat, making some parts of cities up to 20°F hotter than other parts.

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