**updated June 2021**
See this interactive graphic that illustrates an impact of climate change–the increase in the number of 90+ degree (F) days (32 degrees C) since 1960 in locations world-wide.
The impact of hotter weather has been variable to date; some regions–like the midwestern United States–have yet to see noticeable increases (on average) in 90+ degree days. Other areas though have already seen substantial increases in hot weather. For example, Delhi, India has seen a 27% increase in 90+ degree days from 1960 to 2017, Karachi in Pakistan has seen a 32% increase, and Miami, Florida, USA has seen a 56% increase (from an average of 85 days in 1960 to 133 days in 2017).
The graphic then projects warming to the year 2089–using the assumption that countries will take action to meet the emissions goals established through the Paris Agreement. In reality, many countries are not likely to meet their goals, and the actual increase in hot weather is likely to be even greater than forecast in the graphic.
For example, the further increase in 90+ degree days from 2017 to 2089 may be 13% for both Delhi and Karachi, 23% for Miami, Florida (from 133 days to 163 days), and a 140% increase for the midwestern U.S.
“Already hot tropical regions can expect even more heat in the future.” Another example–Jakarta in Indonesia experienced an average of 5 months of 90+ degree weather in 1960. By 2089, 90+ degree heat “may last for most of the year.”
“More very hot days worldwide bring direct and dangerous impacts on people and the systems on which we depend. Food, water, energy, transportation, and ecosystems will be affected both in cities and the country. High-temperature health effects will strike the most vulnerable”–the elderly, infants, people with chronic medical conditions, and people with lower incomes.
Explore the graphic (Nadja Popovich, et al., New York Times, August 31, 2018).
For more information about the impacts of climate change, search the Science Primary Literature Database.
