By Daniel Greenblatt, Senior Correspondent
The United States is preparing for an exceptionally hot summer in 2025, with forecasts indicating record-breaking temperatures across multiple regions. Experts warn that the combination of climate change and reduced funding for weather monitoring agencies could hinder effective responses to heatwaves. Vulnerable populations, including the elderly and outdoor workers, are particularly at risk as the nation faces this escalating environmental challenge.
Forecasts Predict Widespread Extreme Heat
Meteorologists anticipate that much of the U.S. will experience above-average temperatures this summer. The Northwest is expected to face the most anomalously high temperatures, especially later in the season. The hottest conditions relative to average will shift from the Central and Southern Plains into the Northwest as summer progresses from June through August.
In Texas, cities like Austin and San Antonio are projected to endure extended periods of triple-digit temperatures, potentially breaking century-old records. Northern states such as Minnesota have already experienced record-breaking heat, with cities like Fargo and Bismarck surpassing temperature records from the 1800s.
Climate Change Amplifies Heat Risks
The intensifying heat is attributed to climate change, which has led to rising global temperatures. Between January and September 2024, global average temperatures were significantly warmer than pre-industrial times, exceeding the level stipulated in international climate agreements.
In the U.S., 2024 was the hottest year on record, with the contiguous United States experiencing its highest annual average temperature since records began in 1895. Climate scientists warn that such extreme conditions are becoming the new norm.
Vulnerable Populations at Increased Risk
The extreme heat poses significant health risks, particularly for vulnerable populations. The elderly, outdoor workers, and individuals without access to air conditioning are at heightened risk of heat-related illnesses. Excessive heat is already the leading cause of weather-related deaths in the U.S., with such fatalities increasing substantially over the past two decades.
Local governments in states like California and cities like Tucson are implementing new regulations and adaptation strategies to protect residents. However, adaptation efforts remain underfunded and uneven across the country. Many communities lack the resources to respond effectively to prolonged heatwaves, putting millions at risk.
Funding Cuts Hamper Weather Monitoring
Efforts to monitor and respond to extreme weather are being challenged by significant funding cuts to federal agencies. The National Weather Service has lost hundreds of employees, leading to temporary overnight closures of forecast offices and a reduction in the launch of vital weather balloons.
These staffing shortages have resulted in missed weather balloon launches, particularly across the Rockies, Great Lakes, and Alaska. Meteorologists argue that each missed balloon represents a permanent loss of critical observational data, affecting forecast accuracy, aviation safety, and long-term climate records.
Economic Implications of Heatwaves
The economic impact of extreme heat is substantial. Weather and climate data from federal agencies play a crucial role in various sectors of the U.S. economy. Retailers, logistics companies, and civil engineers rely on this data for operations ranging from product placement to infrastructure design.
Proposed federal budget cuts targeting climate programs pose risks to these critical data services. Experts warn that disruptions in data collection and forecasting capabilities could hinder the nation’s economic stability and resilience to climate-related challenges.
Call to Action
Experts emphasize the need for immediate action to mitigate the effects of extreme heat. This includes investing in infrastructure to support vulnerable populations, restoring funding to weather monitoring agencies, and implementing policies to address climate change.
Without these measures, the U.S. faces increasing health risks, economic disruptions, and challenges in emergency preparedness. The summer of 2025 may well serve as a wake-up call for the urgent need to strengthen national climate resilience.
