US Continues to Battle Record Setting Heat Wave

The blazing heat searing the nation is breaking records around the country. So far, this year’s unusual heat has been linked to 71 heat-related deaths in the US according to published news reports. High temperatures have also contributed to drought conditions and water shortages, which have destroyed crops and left many farmers in severe financial trouble. While no single hot season can be tied to global warming, an analysis by the Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) has concluded that these conditions could become a regular occurrence in the future unless greenhouse gas emissions are brought under control.

EDF analysis shows that US cities are expected to experience many more days over 90, 95 and 100F in the future than they currently average unless swift action is taken to bring global warming under control. The analysis is available free at http://www.edf.org/90Plus.

“This year’s devastating heat waves and tragic heat-related deaths may provide a picture of a typical summer of the future unless emissions of greenhouse gases are significantly reduced,” said EDF scientist Dr. Janine Bloomfield. “Without greenhouse gas controls many cities can expect to experience a substantial increase in very warm days during the next century. Children, the impoverished, the elderly and those already weakened by illness are especially vulnerable to heat-related illness and even mortality during prolonged periods of hot weather.”

Greenhouse gases emitted from industries and cars trap heat in the atmosphere, causing the Earth’s climate to warm. “The US of the future could be flooded with problems if action isn’t taken to cut greenhouse gas emissions now,” said Bloomfield. “Sea-level rise associated with global warming, combined with high-tide levels and storm surges, poses a serious flood threat to many of our coastal cities. Low-lying cities’ roads, tunnels, railways and airports could be at risk.”

“If we want our grandchildren to inherit a safe and stable climate, it’s critical that affordable early reductions of greenhouse gas emissions be started immediately,” said Bloomfield.