Heat Waves

Two distinct regional drivers of the intensification of concurrent hot and dry extremes over China

A new study reveals that summer concurrent hot and dry events in China intensify due to different physical driving mechanisms in western and east-central regions. Western China's trends are driven by anthropogenic warming, while east-central China's hazards stem from coupled monsoon decline, drought amplification, and heat feedback.

As monsoon transforms, new study warns of deadly heat-rain double threat—and reveals a 2-year prediction breakthrough

A new study highlights the dual threat of extreme humid heat and catastrophic rainfall during the Indian monsoon, while also revealing a powerful new tool to predict the monsoon up to two years in advance. The research paints a sobering picture of climate change's impact on the region.

Climate change to alter sea-land breeze and increase ozone pollution in Barcelona

A study predicts climate change will trap air pollutants over coastal areas, increasing health risks for millions in Barcelona. Ozone concentrations are projected to rise substantially along the coastline by 2100.

New study reveals how extreme heat shapes cancer care decisions

Researchers found that extreme heat impacts daily life, access to care, and treatment-related decisions among people with cancer. Participants adapted by limiting outdoor activity, but these compromises affected health, independence, and quality of life.

At least two weather patterns increase headaches, University of Cincinnati study suggests

Researchers identified two weather patterns associated with an increased risk of headaches in the Northeast US. The study found that approaching cold fronts and high-pressure systems, such as the Bermuda High, can trigger new-onset headaches in people with episodic migraines.

Researchers advance first-of-its-kind AI tool for translating life-saving weather warnings across the US

A new AI-powered translation program developed by the National Weather Service (NWS) translates weather forecasts into multiple languages, including Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese, Samoan, and French. The program aims to provide life-saving information to over 68 million US residents who do not speak English at home.

Tropical cyclones give rise to unique type of heat wave in Japan

Researchers at Tokyo Metropolitan University have identified a unique type of heat wave in Japan, known as 'moist heat waves,' which are accompanied by tropical cyclones and high humidity. These heat waves account for a quarter of the days surveyed and pose significant hazards due to extreme temperatures and torrential rain.

UK heat risk leaves vulnerable people dangerously exposed

A new study warns that the UK's failure to protect the most vulnerable people from extreme heat is becoming a public health threat. The research highlights gaps in building regulations, weak enforcement, and low public awareness as key factors contributing to the problem.

AMS Science Preview: “Ornamental twilight,” heat deaths, hurricane eyes

Soil also suffers from heat waves: organic waste used to boost its tolerance to 50 degrees Celsius

Researchers found that adding organic matter can increase soil resistance to heat waves and preserve phosphorus reserves. Organic amendments like olive pomace proved effective in boosting soil resilience.

Birds can suffer serious harm from heatwaves

AMS science preview: AI forecast limits, unpredictable hurricanes, simplified heat index

New research from the American Meteorological Society explores AI forecasting limits, the impact of climate change on hurricane trends, and simplifies the heat index. The studies find that machine learning can outperform numerical physics-based models in certain conditions, but not universally.

Much of humanity may face hot-dry extremes five times more often by end-century

Researchers project that 28% of the global population will face heightened exposure to hot-dry extremes by the 2090s, concentrated in low-income, tropical nations. Limiting emissions could avert a lot of risk, with about 18% of the population facing this level of exposure under current climate action plans.

New study predicts Siberian-Arctic heatwaves a month in advance using stratospheric ozone and sea ice signals

A new study forecasts disruptive Siberian-Arctic heatwaves up to one month in advance by monitoring Arctic stratospheric ozone depletion and Kara Sea ice loss. The model correctly predicted six out of seven major SAH events since 1979.

Warming coastal waters primary driver of large-scale humid heatwaves

Climate research reveals that warming coastal waters are driving large-scale humid heatwaves, with strongest links in tropical regions and between land and ocean. Understanding these interactions can improve climate adaptation strategies and provide early warning indicators for widespread heat extremes.

New study reveals hidden ocean heatwaves threatening South China Sea ecosystems

A new study reveals hidden ocean heatwaves in the South China Sea, threatening biodiversity and fisheries. The research team identified the northeastern basin as a persistent hotspot, with heat transport from the Kuroshio amplifying subsurface warming.

AMS Science Preview: Mississippi River, ocean carbon storage, gender and floods

Researchers investigated the Mississippi River's hydrological trends, ocean carbon storage, and gender dynamics in flood mortality. A study found that precipitation increases, but soil moisture decreases, while high-resolution models reveal stronger Southern Ocean carbon absorption. Additionally, data showed men are overrepresented in ...

Exposure to life-limiting heat has soared around the planet

A new study finds that the amount of time per year that extreme heat makes it unsafe to go about daily life has doubled since the 1950s, with younger adults facing 2x more hours of heat-related limitations, while older adults face 50% more

Subway systems are uncomfortably hot — and worsening

Subway systems are consistently reporting thermal discomfort due to the rising heat, with complaints increasing by 10-27% for every 1 degree Celsius above 10 degrees Celsius in Boston, New York, and London respectively. The study aims to help transit agencies anticipate extreme heat and implement targeted mitigation strategies.

Global warming and heat stress risk close in on the Tour de France

A recent study analyzing 50 years of climate data shows that the Tour de France has so far avoided extreme heat conditions, but the risk is increasingly high. The researchers found that regions like Paris and Lyon are becoming new heat stress hotspots, highlighting the need to adapt schedules, routes, and safety protocols.

Experts show how major UK food crisis might occur

A new report by Anglia Ruskin University and the University of York identifies key weaknesses in the UK's food system and recommends interventions to prevent disruptions from escalating into a crisis. The study suggests increasing energy security, diversifying food value chains, and promoting varied diets to reduce risks.

Study: Extreme heatwaves across the Caribbean are becoming more frequent and severe

A new study led by climatologists at the University at Albany found that extreme heatwaves in the Caribbean have increased significantly over the last five decades. The study reveals that heatwaves are lasting longer and occurring more often, especially in Cuba, Haiti, Puerto Rico, and the Dominican Republic.

Heatwaves could put millions of European cattle at risk by mid-century

The study maps where and how millions of animals may be affected by heat stress in Europe. Regional differences were found, with southern European countries such as Italy, Spain, Greece, and Romania likely to face significant impacts.

AMS Science Preview: Volcanic rain, dust storms, and unstable Antarctic air

Recent research reveals that volcanic eruptions can cause unpredictable weather patterns, including volcanic rain, dust storms, and unstable Antarctic air. The study also found that the Antarctic surface atmosphere has become less stable and more prone to gravity waves since the 1950s.

AMS 2026 Meeting showcases atmospheric science and the “human factor”

The 106th Annual Meeting of the American Meteorological Society will focus on the intersection of technology and human decision-making in weather, water, and climate sciences. The meeting will feature keynote presentations, Presidential Sessions, and named symposia highlighting key Earth science topics.

FAU survey: Hurricane season ends, but weather woes push Floridians to move

A Florida Atlantic University survey finds that 36% of Floridians have moved or are considering relocating due to weather hazards. The survey also reveals concerns about climate change, with only half of Floridians believing it is caused by human activity.

Five things to know about staying cool in the heat

To mitigate excessive heat strain, it is essential to limit physical exertion and maintain hydration. Griffith University researchers recommend resting in shaded or cool spaces for 15-45 minutes per hour depending on work intensity.

AMS Science Preview: Railways and cyclones; pinned clouds; weather warnings in wartime

Researchers investigate how adjacent cities exacerbate each other's heat island effects. A study also highlights the need for improved hindcasting infrastructure in climate science. Additionally, a campaign monitors pinned clouds over industrial sources of heat and finds that trees are more reliable against heat stress than buildings.

Deadly, record-breaking heatwaves will persist for 1,000 years, even under net zero

Researchers predict that deadly hotter and longer heatwaves will become the norm due to delayed net zero carbon emissions. The study shows that the longer it takes to reach net zero, the higher the occurrence of extreme heatwave events.

Weather behind past heat waves could return far deadlier

A new study finds that past heat waves in Europe could become far deadlier in today's warmer climate, with weekly deaths potentially reaching up to 32,000. Researchers used AI and statistical techniques to estimate the death toll based on historical data and global average temperatures.

Extra iron helps stressed out wheat grow up big and strong

Researchers have discovered that extended periods of high stress in wheat crops can lead to iron deficiency and stunted growth. By reducing iron deficiency with a synthetic organic molecule called PDMA, plants are able to improve photosynthesis and biomass under heat stress conditions.

World’s leading medical journal details the climate emergency

The Lancet Countdown report reveals that the world is facing unprecedented levels of health threats due to climate change, with millions of lives lost unnecessarily. The report calls for urgent action to limit future harm by prioritizing human health in policy decisions.

Heatwaves linked to rise in sleep apnoea cases in Europe

A major study published in the European Respiratory Journal found that heatwaves increase the risk of moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) by 13% during peak heatwave periods. The risk is higher when humidity is also high, with a 1.1% increase for every 1°C rise in nighttime temperature.

PolyU research achieves record efficiency in semi-transparent solar cells, advancing the development of building-integrated photovoltaics

Researchers at PolyU developed an innovative parameter to evaluate photoactive materials for ST-OPVs, advancing high-performance devices with low-cost production and environmental sustainability. Record light utilisation efficiency of 6.05% was achieved in semi-transparent solar cells.

AMS science preview: global heat record false? Rainier storms

Recent research from the American Meteorological Society reveals a false global heat record, suggests that severe weather events are increasing in frequency, and predicts an expansion of fire-prone areas. The study also examines the impact of cold wakes on tropical cyclone rainfall and finds that they intensify with global warming.

Parched soils can spark hot drought a nation away

Researchers found compound drought-heatwave events rippling and persisting through the night, exacerbating heat-related health risks. Soil dryness plays a key role in triggering these extreme events, which can affect crops, wildfires, and daily life.

2023 ocean heatwave ‘unprecedented but not unexpected’

The June 2023 heatwave significantly disrupted phytoplankton blooms and stressed marine species. Rapid climate change increases the likelihood of such events, with about a 10% chance occurring each year.

Marine heatwaves have hidden impacts on ocean food webs and carbon cycling

A new study found that marine heatwaves impact the base of ocean food webs, changing carbon cycling in the process. However, the effects of the two heatwaves were not consistent, with one causing a 'conveyor belt' to jam and increasing the risk of carbon returning to the atmosphere.

Ceiling fans can worsen heat strain when the mercury surpasses 31°C

New research from Griffith University finds that ceiling fans are not effective in fully alleviating heat-induced physiological strain for vulnerable populations. The study recommends using ceiling fans early during heat exposure and combining them with air conditioning to minimize health risks.

Unveiling the underlying mechanism of the record-breaking 2023 East Asian summer heatwave: The notable role of unprecedented marine heatwaves

Researchers at the University of Tsukuba found that 2023 marine heatwaves significantly exacerbated the record-breaking East Asian summer heatwave. The study revealed that changes in cloud cover and water vapor enhanced solar radiation reaching the ground, amplifying surface temperatures.

PolyU scholars pioneer smart and sustainable personal cooling technologies to address global extreme heat

Researchers at PolyU are pioneering next-generation personal cooling solutions using advanced textiles and intelligent wearables. Their innovations include spectrum-selective textiles, thermal insulation, ventilative and evaporative cooling, and AI-driven frameworks that deliver personalized, energy-efficient cooling.

Submerging forearms in water may help protect older adults during extreme heat

A new study from Penn State researchers found that submerging hands and forearms in room-temperature tap water can effectively cool older adults and reduce their heart rate during extreme heat. The study demonstrated a reduction in core body temperature by about half a degree Fahrenheit, which may help prevent heat-related illnesses.

Rising heat waves tied to fossil fuel and cement production

Research by ETH Zurich reveals human-induced climate change has increased extreme heat wave frequency and severity, with fossil fuel and cement production contributing significantly. The study highlights the responsibility of large carbon emitters, such as oil and gas companies, in exacerbating heat waves.

Cities face double trouble: Extreme heat and air pollution cause increasing compound weather events

Compound heat and air pollution episodes are becoming more frequent and intense in US cities, posing a significant threat to public health. The study found that urban areas experience more frequent overlaps of extreme heat with harmful air pollutants than surrounding rural areas.

Deep-learning model visualizes urban heat stress at the meter scale

A new deep-learning model calculates urban heat stress per square meter in the future, considering geodata and weather forecasts. The model simulates a range of climate scenarios, including increased heat stress due to rising greenhouse gas emissions.

Extreme heat poses growing threat to our aging population

A study of over 40 research studies found that older adults often don't understand the risk of extreme heat and aren't prepared for long periods of hot weather. The researchers suggest that individuals themselves go through transformations as they age, which can affect their bodies' reactions to heat.

In Africa, heat waves are hotter and longer than 40 years ago, UIC researchers say

Researchers found that heat waves across Africa are now hotter, longer, and more frequent, mainly due to human activities. The study aimed to fill the knowledge gap on climate extremes in Africa and provide insights for mitigation and adaptation strategies.

Unprecedented heat in North China: how soil moisture amplified 2023's record heatwave

A new study reveals that a combination of large-scale atmospheric circulation and strong soil moisture feedback contributed to North China's record-breaking three-day heatwave in late June 2023. The study found that the extreme heat was amplified by an unusually dry season, with temperatures soaring past 40°C in some areas.

AMS science preview: New lightning record, fewer hurricanes, fire forecasts

Recent research from American Meteorological Society journals predicts a new record for lightning and a decrease in hurricane frequency. Additionally, fire forecasts have been updated to better manage water resources in Colorado's Gunnison River Basin.

Barcelona could suffer heat waves up to 6ºC more intense by the end of the century

A study predicts that Barcelona will experience extreme and dry heat periods with temperature increases of up to 4ºC and a general reduction in relative humidity. The research forecasts an increase in average maximum temperatures of 4ºC and average minimum temperatures of 3.5ºC if greenhouse gas emissions are not drastically reduced.

Decline in aerosols could lead to more heatwaves in populated areas

A study found that declining aerosols are up to 2.5 times more influential than greenhouse gases in driving changes in heatwave occurrence in populated areas. Higher levels of aerosols suppressed heatwave exposure by reflecting the sun's rays, but this trend is now reversing due to clean air policies.

Climate change cuts milk production, even when farmers cool their cows

A recent study published in Science Advances found that extreme heat can reduce milk production by up to 10% and even when farmers use cooling technologies. The researchers analyzed data from over 130,000 Israeli dairy cows and surveyed more than 300 dairy farmers to understand the impact of climate change on milk supply.

Study: What we learned from record-breaking 2021 heat wave and what we can expect in the future

A new study synthesized over 70 publications on the 2021 heat wave, attributing it to a rare high-pressure ridge and increasing temperatures. The researchers predict that such events will become more frequent as the climate warms.

Research news from the Ecological Society of America’s journals

Meerkat research reveals how desert specialists handle environmental change, while a new study outlines a pathway to co-management with Tribal Nations, and another finds that marine heatwaves affect fish development, leading to a delayed maturation process. Drylands also contribute to increased methane emissions.

How likely are extreme hot weather episodes in today’s UK climate?

Researchers estimate that temperatures several degrees above the 2022 UK heatwave are plausible in today's climate, with a simulated maximum of over 45°C (113°F). The likelihood of 40°C will continue to rise as the climate warms.

Multiple extreme climate events at the same time may be the new normal

Researchers at Uppsala University predict that concurrent extreme events will become more frequent due to climate change, posing new challenges for preparedness. The study examines six types of events and finds a sharp increase in combinations of heatwaves and forest fires, as well as heatwaves and droughts, in various regions worldwide.

Heatwaves greatly influence parasite burden; likely spread of disease

A new study found that heatwaves can increase disease burden by up to 13 times, driven by complex interactions between temperature attributes and baseline temperatures. This knowledge is crucial for predicting the impact of heatwaves on disease spread and highlights the need for more detailed models.

Salamanders suffering from rising temperatures

A new study from Goethe University confirms that climate change and extreme weather events are devastating amphibian diversity. Analysis of global weather data reveals a direct connection between increased heat waves, droughts, and declining salamander populations.

Marine heatwaves pose problems for coastal plankton

Researchers found that gradual warming causes significant changes in the plankton community, while heatwaves amplify these effects. The study used historical data and an experiment to simulate future warmer scenarios with and without heatwaves.

Satellites offer new view of Chesapeake Bay’s marine heat waves

The University of Maryland-led study found that the bay experiences 25 days of heat waves annually, with a 10% uptick in recent years. Satellite data shows varying duration and frequency of heat waves across different regions of the bay, highlighting the need for a marine heat wave warning system.