Heat waves like this week are more likely to happen in the future
SOUTH BEND, Ind -- We are living in a warmer climate and the recent heat wave that started June 21, is linked to climate change. A heat wave like this week will likely be a more common occurrence each summer. Record highs were not set, but three consecutive warmest lows were recorded. The extreme humidity has kept lows above 70 degrees and makes the heat wave more dangerous than when days near 100. The muggy nights can be taxing on your body and your power bill, running air conditioning.
A streak of lows at or above 70 degrees is significant, a streak of more than seven days would set a Top Ten longest streak. A streak that is likely to happen, as temperatures are unlikely to drop into the 60s until next Tuesday.
A heat wave like this, is now three times more likely to happen in our warming climate, according to the Climate Shift Index. The index quantifies the impact of climate change on our weather. A heat wave like this week is more likely each summer and will likely become more intense, in the future.
