News Summary
In July 2023, Arizona recorded an unprecedented average temperature of 85.4°F, marking its hottest July in history. This record highlights a concerning trend linked to climate change, as the state and country face rising temperatures. July 2023 also recorded a monthly high of 101.1°F and low of 69.7°F, alongside minimal precipitation. With the continental U.S. experiencing its third hottest July on record, the impact of climate conditions on weather patterns continues to intensify, prompting urgent calls for climate action and adaptation strategies.
Arizona has recorded its hottest average temperature for the month of July in history, reaching an astonishing 85.4°F. This unprecedented figure showcases a trend of rising temperatures, significantly influenced by climate change. The data for this record-breaking month was compiled by Stacker from the National Centers for Environmental Information.
The record for July 2023 includes a monthly high temperature of 101.1°F and a monthly low of 69.7°F. Total precipitation during the month was recorded at 0.52 inches. This extreme heat continues a concerning trend for the state, highlighting the deteriorating impact of climate conditions.
Arizona’s latest record fits into a broader national pattern, where the continental United States experienced its third hottest July since reliable records began in 1895. In July 2022, twenty states recorded one of their ten hottest days on record for that month, intensifying concerns over climate change and its associated impacts on weather patterns.
Context of Rising Temperatures
Over the last century, the Earth’s temperature has increased approximately 0.14 degrees Fahrenheit each decade since 1880, accumulating to about 2 degrees Fahrenheit overall. Such gradual temperature rises have contributed to extreme weather events, including historic heat waves witnessed in various parts of the U.S.
In July 2021, the planet saw its hottest month on record, which has since shaped discussions surrounding global warming and climate responsiveness. The correlation between these rising temperatures and climate change is well established, with scientific consensus attributing the phenomenon to human activities such as greenhouse gas emissions.
Comparing Hottest Months in Arizona
Historically, Arizona has had a range of hot Julys. Prior to the record-breaking heat of July 2023, the previous notable months included:
- #2: August 2020 – Average temperature: 84.1°F; Monthly high: 99.4°F; Monthly low: 68.8°F; Precipitation: 0.6 inches.
- #3: July 2003 – Average: 83.8°F; Monthly high: 98.9°F; Monthly low: 68.5°F; Precipitation: 1.25 inches.
- #4 (tie): July 2020 – Average: 82.8°F; Monthly high: 97.8°F; Monthly low: 67.8°F; Precipitation: 0.71 inches.
- #6: July 2005 – Average: 82.7°F; Monthly high: 98.6°F; Monthly low: 66.9°F; Precipitation: 1.05 inches.
- #7 (tie): July 2016 – Average: 82.4°F; Monthly high: 96.8°F; Monthly low: 67.9°F; Precipitation: 1.39 inches.
- #9 (tie): July 2018 – Average: 82.3°F; Monthly high: 96.2°F; Monthly low: 68.3°F; Precipitation: 2.59 inches.
These temperature records indicate not just a trend for Arizona, but also signify a disturbing pattern across a significant part of the United States. As the climate crisis worsens, state officials and residents alike are facing new challenges in coping with heat waves and the implications for public health and safety.
As temperatures continue to soar, it is imperative for both citizens and policymakers to address the growing urgency of climate change and develop strategies for adaptation and mitigation. The facts from July 2023 serve as a stark reminder of the importance of these efforts in maintaining a livable environment for future generations.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Arizona’s Hottest Months Since 1895 – AZ Family
- Wikipedia: Climate Change in the United States
- Hottest Months in Arizona Since 1895 – KYMA
- Google Search: Climate Change
- Hottest Months in Arizona – Stacker
- Google Scholar: Climate Change Negative Effects
- Hottest Phoenix Summers on Record – Phoenix New Times
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Climate
- Phoenix August Heat Record – KTAR
- Google News: Heat Waves in Arizona
Author: STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER
PHOENIX STAFF WRITER The PHOENIX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhoenix.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Phoenix, Maricopa County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Cactus League Spring Training, and Arizona State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and Visit Phoenix, plus leading businesses in technology and healthcare that power the local economy such as Intel and Banner Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERETucson.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Arizona's dynamic landscape.
