As summer begins in the Northern Hemisphere, the US and Europe are experiencing severe heat waves, with record-breaking temperatures and high humidity. Experts attribute these events to intense heat domes and global warming.
Global Warming’s Impact
Climate scientists, such as Michael Mann and Kim Cobb, emphasize the link between climate change and heat waves, stating that the burning of fossil fuels is the primary driver of the uptick in deadly heat waves worldwide.
The strengthening of El Niño and record-high worldwide ocean temperatures may also be amplifying the heat. According to Mann, "warmer oceans mean more moisture in the atmosphere, which is available to intensify storm systems and produce heavy rainfall."
Heat Domes and the Jet Stream
The jet stream, a highway of air at high altitudes, can lead to extreme outcomes, such as heat domes that persist for days or weeks. Mann notes that the tendency of the jet stream to get locked into stable, wavy configurations favors persistent weather extremes.
Original reporting: KEYT (Ventura/Santa Barbara) — read the source article.
