Fact Check: "Extreme heat in June is pushing temperatures 20 degrees above normal."
What We Know
In June 2025, a significant heat wave has been reported across the central and eastern United States, with temperatures soaring well above average. Meteorologist Brian Hurley from the Weather Prediction Center indicated that temperatures in New York and New England could be around 20 degrees above average. This heat wave is attributed to a phenomenon known as a heat dome, which traps hot air and leads to prolonged periods of high temperatures without relief. The National Weather Service has issued heat advisories and excessive heat warnings across various states, indicating that conditions are expected to persist through midweek, with temperatures in some areas reaching the low 100s and heat indices potentially hitting near 115 degrees.
Analysis
The claim that extreme heat in June is pushing temperatures 20 degrees above normal is supported by multiple credible sources. According to the New York Times, meteorologists have confirmed that parts of the eastern United States are experiencing temperatures significantly above the seasonal average. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) also released a climate outlook indicating that June temperatures were expected to be well above average across most of the contiguous United States, further corroborating the claim of extreme heat conditions (NOAA Climate.gov).
Additionally, the Washington Post reported that extreme humidity and heat would affect approximately 265 million people, highlighting the severity of the situation. The combination of high temperatures and humidity creates dangerous conditions, especially for vulnerable populations. The reliability of these sources is high, as they are established news organizations and government agencies with expertise in weather forecasting and climate science.
However, it is important to note that while the claim is accurate for specific regions, the overall impact of the heat wave may vary across different parts of the country. Some areas may experience temperatures that are not as extreme as the reported 20 degrees above normal.
Conclusion
The claim that "extreme heat in June is pushing temperatures 20 degrees above normal" is True. The evidence from multiple reliable sources confirms that significant portions of the eastern United States are experiencing temperatures that exceed normal levels by this margin, driven by a heat dome phenomenon and exacerbated by high humidity levels.
Sources
- Dangerous Heat Wave Expands Over Central and Eastern United States
- U.S. climate outlook for June 2025 - NOAA Climate.gov
- Here's where the U.S. will see record-breaking heat
- U.S. braces for first significant heat wave of summer
- A heat dome is about to bring extreme heat and humidity ...
- Millions expect to brace for early summer heat wave
