July 2026 Recorded as Hottest Month in U.S. History

According to data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), July 2026 was the hottest month on record for the contiguous United States, with an average temperature of 76.89°F. This surpassed the previous record of 76.77°F set in July 1936. The average temperature for July 2026 was 3.3°F higher than the 1901-2000 average. NOAA's National Centers for Environmental Information reported that all states experienced above-average temperatures, with none ranking near or below average. The month was characterized by multiple 'heat domes' that trapped warm air and contributed to extreme heat events. Researchers indicate that climate change is increasing the frequency and intensity of such events, which are also influenced by patterns like El Niño. NOAA's Climate Prediction Center forecasts a continued likelihood of above-average temperatures for most of the continental U.S. through August, and there is a possibility that 2026 may become the hottest year globally.