Once again, this summer is likely to be warmest on record

This summer is on track to be the hottest globally, and in California, in at least 175 years. That’s according to the latest data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association, or NOAA.

Much of Southern California experienced some of its hottest temperatures ever in July. Keep in mind that temperature records in the state go back to 1895.

Heating up

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Courtesy NOAA

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According to NOAA and NASA, the 10 warmest years globally since 1850 have all occurred in the past decade. In less than 200 years, since the Industrial Revolution began in the U.S., the global average temperature has increased by more than two degrees Fahrenheit.

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Courtesy NOAA

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In 2024, seen above, that meant nearly all spots on the globe experienced "much warmer that average" or "record warmest" temperatures.

The context

The planet’s climate has changed dramatically over millions of years, but atmospheric carbon dioxide levels are now at their highest in millenia due to pollution from human society. Scientific consensus proves the modern, rapid weather shifts we're now experiencing are a result of how human society, largely through fossil fuel pollution, is changing our climate.

Remember, these numbers are all averages, so it doesn’t mean that specifically where you live experienced record-breaking heat this summer.

What’s next

There is broad scientific consensus that global fossil fuel pollution needs to be cut in half within this decade to avoid the worst impacts of the climate crisis. There are many ways to do that, including transitioning to cleaner energy sources such as solar and wind, reducing our reliance on cars, and electing leaders who advance policies to protect nature and public health from pollution.

Go deeper: Much of LAist’s climate coverage focuses on solutions. Find our coverage here.