July 2026 Becomes Hottest Month on Record in the U.S.
The United States experienced its hottest month on record in July 2026, with an average temperature of 76.9°F (24.9°C), surpassing the previous records set in July 1936 and July 2012. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), this figure was 3.3°F (1.8°C) above the 20th-century average. Wyoming recorded its warmest July and warmest month ever, with some areas experiencing temperatures up to 10°F (5.6°C) above normal. Overnight temperatures were particularly extreme, exceeding the July 2022 record by 0.7°F (0.4°C). Globally, sea surface temperatures outside polar regions reached record highs, driven partly by strengthening El Niño conditions. The heat wave also contributed to widespread drought and wildfire risks across the U.S. and Europe. (Source time: Mon, 10 Aug 2026 21:00:00 GMT)