2023 heat waves

A number of heat waves began across parts of the northern hemisphere in April 2023, many of which are ongoing. Various heat records have been broken, with July being the hottest month ever recorded.

Scientists have attributed the heat waves to man-made climate change. Another cause is the El Niño phenomena which began to develop in 2023. However, recent findings show that climate change is exacerbating the strength of El Niño.

The heatwaves caused severe damage in areas such as the western United States, southern Europe, and parts of Asia. The abnormal temperatures have led to a "very extreme" likelihood of wildfires, according to the Fire Weather Index.

The heatwaves were also occurring alongside some unusually heavy flooding.

In response to the heatwave some leaders called for greater action to stop climate change. President of the United States Joe Biden has taken some measures to protect the population from extreme heat.