The world is experiencing its 12th consecutive month of record-breaking heat, with this summer poised to be one of the hottest yet. Heatwaves have already hit parts of the United States, Mexico, Europe, the Middle East, and South Asia, resulting in over a thousand fatalities, health advisories, and school closures.
July is traditionally the hottest month of the year, with temperatures exceeding 40C in some areas of the Northern Hemisphere. The UN’s World Meteorological Organization has reported that July 2023 was the warmest month ever recorded, suggesting that this year will continue the trend of extreme heat.
The Earth’s axial tilt of 23.5 degrees creates the changing seasons and marks the beginning of astronomical summer on the summer solstice. In the Northern Hemisphere, this occurs around June 20 or 21, resulting in the longest day of the year. The Tropic of Cancer, 23.5 degrees above the equator, passes through countries like Mexico, Egypt, and India, contributing to hot summers.
As summer arrives in the Northern Hemisphere, with Northern cities experiencing the midnight sun phenomenon, precautions need to be taken to combat the scorching temperatures. Understanding seasonal lag can explain why temperatures peak in the afternoon rather than at midday, and why July is typically the hottest month.
To stay cool and avoid heat-related illnesses during the summer months, here are some tips to minimize the risk of heat stroke. Whether you have access to air conditioning or not, staying hydrated, wearing light clothing, and avoiding strenuous outdoor activities during peak hours can help protect against the extreme heat.
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