heat waves
Coverage of heat waves in the Nexus archive.
- Western Europe sets new temperature record as heat waves pummel the region
Western Europe has set a new temperature record due to heat waves that pummeled the region this summer. This new average temperature record pertains specifically to the June-July period. The current readings surpassed an existing record benchmark established in 2022.
- NYC funds AI maps to fight heat and help plan new planting
New York City is funding an AI mapping project to combat heat and guide new tree planting efforts. The initiative, led by Cornell Tech researchers, aims to identify neighborhoods needing more trees to reduce stormwater runoff, improve air quality, and lower temperatures during heat waves.
- This summer isn’t breaking heat records — yet. Wait until El Nino kicks in, scientists say
This summer is not breaking heat records yet, but scientists warn that the strengthening super El Niño could change this. The article highlights wildfires, deadly heat waves, and record hot oceans as indicators of extreme weather linked to El Niño.
- Europe’s Key Rivers Are Drying Up; Mixed Messages on US, Iran Talks | The Opening Trade 8/3/2026
President Donald Trump announced fresh US-Iran talks to address the Strait of Hormuz, while Iran's Foreign Ministry stated negotiations are only with Oman. Europe's major rivers are drying due to heatwaves, impacting power generation and increasing energy prices in Eastern Europe.
- How Extreme Heat Affects Europe's Key Rivers
Europe’s biggest rivers, vital for heavy industries, are drying up due to extreme heat waves. Bloomberg's Eva Brendel reports on the situation.
- Europe’s Endless Heat Waves Imperil Once Reliable Power Sources
A series of heat waves in Europe has weakened historically reliable electricity sources, leading to increased reliance on imported fossil fuels and variable renewable energy.
- This common 'heat wave mistake' could harm your health as temperatures soar over 95 degrees this weekend
The CDC warns that using electric fans can increase body temperature during extreme heat. The article highlights the importance of understanding safe temperature limits and following expert recommendations to stay safe during heat waves.
- 3 charts show how extreme heat is costing us hours of lost sleep
The U.S. has experienced heat waves this summer, leading to high overnight temperatures that disrupt sleep, as illustrated by three charts.
- 8 heat waves in history that changed how cities are built
The article discusses eight historical heat waves that prompted governments to revise building codes, establish cooling centers, and reevaluate urban design to better manage extreme heat.
- How to keep babies safe when temperatures soar
The article discusses how infants and young children are more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses during extreme heat waves, offering safety tips from pediatricians. It highlights the importance of regulating body temperature, avoiding peak heat times, and proper hydration for babies.
- California lifeguards are rescuing thousands during high surf, heat waves this summer
California lifeguards are rescuing thousands during high surf and heat waves this summer. Repeated heat waves have led to a busy season for lifeguards.
- California lifeguards are rescuing thousands during high surf, heat waves this summer
California lifeguards are rescuing thousands during high surf and heat waves this summer. Repeated heat waves have made it a busy season for lifeguards.
- Why is Germany building roads for yesterday's climate?
Germany is constructing roads designed for a previous climate, which are now being damaged by heat waves on the Autobahn. Engineers have solutions to address this issue, but implementation is delayed.
- French president pledges support on visit to fire zone, vows: 'We will win this battle together'
French President Emmanuel Macron visited a wildfire coordination center in southwest France, praising firefighters for containing a blaze that displaced 220,000 people and urging continued efforts amid forecasted heat waves. He described the crisis as France's worst fire-related situation since World War II, with flames approaching Bordeaux and requiring extensive resources to control.
- Macron holds crisis meeting as monster wildfires drive 250,000 from their homes
French President Emmanuel Macron held a crisis meeting addressing uncontrolled wildfires that have displaced over 250,000 people in Gironde and Landes regions. Firefighting efforts include international assistance, but rising temperatures threaten progress. The fires, linked to climate emergencies, have also caused evacuations in Spain.
- Europe is warming to America's obsession with staying cool
Europeans are increasingly adopting air conditioning due to record heat waves, shifting attitudes toward cooling solutions. Sales of AC units by companies like Samsung and Midea have surged in countries such as Italy, Spain, and France. A market analyst notes this trend is structural, reflecting long-term changes in European climate adaptation.
- A tempting remedy for heat-stricken France: Be more like Spain
French officials plan to interview Spanish leaders and academics in September to learn how Spain copes with heat waves. The initiative aims to address heat-related challenges in France.
- Europe's heat waves are killing thousands—and wringing its soils dry
Europe is experiencing severe heat waves that have caused thousands of deaths and are rapidly depleting rivers, soils, and reservoirs. The continent faces a dual crisis of extreme heat and record-breaking environmental strain.
- Why Extreme Heat Is a “Mass Casualty Event”
Extreme heat is described as a 'mass casualty event' due to record-breaking heat waves. Kathy Baughman McLeod, CEO of HERA, discusses the organization's efforts to protect women in low-income communities from extreme heat effects.
- Crop Prices Hit 3-Year High as Black Sea Attacks, Heat Stoke Food Inflation
Crop prices reached a three-year high due to heat waves and attacks in the Black Sea, which threaten to disrupt global grain trade and exacerbate food inflation. The situation is further compounded by the war in Iran.
- France reports over 5,700 deaths linked to heat waves as sweltering temperatures ravage country
France has recorded over 5,700 excess deaths during a historic summer heat wave, according to Public Health France. This marks the country's deadliest heat-related toll in more than two decades.
- How heat waves are messing with your sleep
Residents across Europe have struggled to sleep during recent record heat waves. As global warming progresses, sleep deprivation linked to heat waves could lead to widespread mental and physical health issues.
- New Heat Rules Limit When Utilities Can Cut Off Your Power
California's Public Utilities Commission voted to lower the temperature threshold from 100 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit, preventing utilities from cutting power to delinquent customers during heatwaves. The decision addresses concerns about climate change intensifying heatwaves and limiting access to power for unpaid bills.
- New heat rules limit when utilities can cut off your power
California's Public Utilities Commission lowered the temperature threshold from 100 to 90 degrees to prevent power shutoffs for delinquent customers during heatwaves. Two new laws address heat safety in schools, requiring heat-safety plans and education on heat illness, though critics note they lack funding for infrastructure improvements.
- As Climate Extremes Collide, Attribution Science Evolves
A National Academy of Sciences report highlights that climate attribution science has shifted focus from determining if human-caused global warming drives extreme events like heat waves, floods, and wildfires to assessing how severe future impacts will become as these events increasingly overlap.
- German tenants need better heat protection
Heat waves are becoming longer, hotter, and more frequent, causing tenants in Germany to struggle with record temperatures. Chancellor Friedrich Merz has stated that the building law needs to be amended.
- Baton Rouge General’s Health Tip of the Week: Heat waves may double risk of heart attack
Baton Rouge General warns that heat waves can double the risk of heart attacks by increasing heart workload and causing dehydration. High-risk groups include those with heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, or over 65. Prevention tips include staying hydrated, avoiding afternoon heat, and seeking air-conditioned spaces.
- Lack of trees causing heat waves, other climate-induced events in Karnataka rain monsoon
The lack of trees in Karnataka is causing heat waves and other climate-induced events during the rain monsoon. An environmentalist is urging afforestation efforts to address rising temperatures.
- In wake of record-breaking heat waves in Pa., experts reflect on preparing for the future
A study by John Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health highlights the severe impacts of extreme heat, including 300 deaths, 4,000 emergency department visits, and $870 million in economic costs in a hypothetical scenario. Pennsylvania recently experienced a heat wave with 1,345 heat-related emergency department visits and seven reported deaths, prompting discussions on preparedness. Climate change is linked to increasing heat wave frequency, with Washington state’s 2021 heat dome causing over 100 deaths.
- At least 11 killed by wildfire in southern Spain
At least 11 people were killed by a wildfire in southern Spain. The cause of the blaze remains undetermined, but Spain has experienced severe heat waves with temperatures reaching nearly 106 degrees in the southern regions.
- From heat waves to flooding: How they’re connected
The Carolinas have experienced consecutive weather extremes, including heat waves and flooding, linked by a warming climate. Rising temperatures increase atmospheric moisture, intensifying rainfall and flash flooding during storms. Climate experts warn that extreme heat and heavy rainfall events will become more common in summer months.
- As climate change damages streets and highways, the road ahead may be expensive
Climate change is causing more intense heat waves that are damaging roads and highways. The article questions whether the nation's roads can withstand a warmer, wetter future.
- LISTEN: A 78 Degree Meltdown About Mamdani
Zohran Mamdani advised New Yorkers to set air conditioners to 78 degrees during a heat wave, a practice previously used by mayors, but faced criticism. Hosts Katie Honan and Harry Siegel discussed the issue with Alex Brook Lynn, covering topics like heat waves and swimming in the Seine. The nonprofit newsroom THE CITY relies on reader donations for local reporting.
- Firefighters battle wildfires across southern Europe
Wildfires are raging across several parts of southern Europe, with firefighters working to battle the fires. These wildfires follow massive heat waves affecting the region.
- Why heat waves heighten the risk of blackouts
Heat waves increase electricity demand for air conditioning, straining power grids and raising blackout risks. France and the US are experiencing heightened risks, with energy prices rising during peak usage periods.
- Aging Untold: The ‘Double-decker sandwich’ — when both sets of parents need care
The article discusses the 'double-decker sandwich' caregiving challenge where couples care for both sets of parents, along with heat risks for older adults, non-smoking lung cancer causes like radon, and a Vermont woman's global teddy bear initiative for traumatized children.
- Heat waves and older adults: Warning signs and how to cool down fast
Older adults are more vulnerable to heat-related health risks during heat waves due to reduced temperature regulation and medication effects. Early warning signs include dehydration, nausea, headaches, and confusion, while cooling strategies like damp cloths and air conditioning are recommended to mitigate risks.
- Heat waves and older adults: Warning signs and how to cool down fast
Older adults face higher risks during heat waves due to reduced temperature regulation and medication effects. Early warning signs include dehydration, confusion, and lack of sweating, while cooling strategies like damp cloths and air conditioning are recommended. Dementia increases vulnerability by impairing temperature control.
- Heat waves and older adults: Warning signs and how to cool down fast
Older adults are more vulnerable to heat-related health risks during heat waves due to reduced temperature regulation and medication effects. Early warning signs include dehydration, behavioral changes, confusion, and lack of sweating. Cooling strategies like using damp cloths and checking in on at-risk individuals are recommended, especially for those with dementia.
- As heat waves loom, scientists wonder how humans will adapt
Temperatures are set to soar in the US around the July 4 holiday, a week after Europe struck new records. Experts predict more intense and frequent heat waves in the future, raising questions about human adaptation.