Jennifer Francis
Coverage of Jennifer Francis in the Nexus archive.
- What makes a ‘heat dome’ and what does it mean?
Heat domes, high-pressure systems trapping heat and humidity, are causing extreme and prolonged heat waves globally. These events are worsening due to climate change, with recent impacts in the continental U.S., Europe, and parts of Asia. Heat domes lead to dangerous temperatures, health risks, and increased frequency of heat-related events.
- How a heat dome is formed and why experts blame one for Europe’s baking temperatures
Europe is experiencing an early summer heat wave linked to a heat dome, a stationary high-pressure system that traps heat and humidity. Experts attribute the extreme temperatures to climate change, which increases the frequency and intensity of such events. France, the most affected country, has issued red heat wave alerts and reported heat-related fatalities.