One day after extreme heat smashed records across Western states, Sunday was expected to bring another round of all-time high temperatures.
But a bit of relief – ever so slight for some – is expected around the corner Monday for the 5 million people withering under a heat wave that gripped the West this weekend, AccuWeather senior meteorologist Tyler Roys said.
This summer’s blistering temperatures are a side effect of the droughts the West experienced last fall, Roys told USA TODAY, and they aren't directly linked to climate change.
“It’s not unusual to have heat waves in this area, and there’s been a drought since October,” Roys said. “Most places are getting 50% of their normal rainfall.”
As the ground grows drier, the hotter temperatures rise, which creates a positive feedback loop that fuels the heat, Roys said.
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