50 states set heat records in July
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Every U.S. state has seen high temperature records broken this month, with some places experiencing extreme heat
Alexandra Pope, staff writer
July 25, 2011 — All 50 U.S. states have set high temperature records in July.
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Texas has been coping with heat and drought conditions all year, which has contributed to major wildfires
The heat has been the biggest story of the summer so far across much of North America.
But how hot has it actually been?
Climate data compiled by the National Oceanic and Atmosphere Administration shows that all 50 U.S. states either broke or tied previous high temperature records at some point between July 1st and 25th.
More than 2,000 record daily highs were logged across the country.
Even more remarkable was the number of record high minimum daily temperatures. More than 4,600 high minimum temperature records were set, meaning the nights provided little relief from the sweltering days.
Even Hawaii and Alaska weren't immune to the warm trend, although the most severe heat has been affecting the southern and central United States.
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The heat even spread to the east coast
For some states, the recent heat wave was just a continuation of hot, dry conditions that have persisted since earlier in the year.
Abilene, Texas has seen 44 days with temperatures of 100°F (37.7°C) so far this year, meaning 2011 has tied 1934 for the most days above 100°F since records began in 1886.
Similarly, San Angelo, Texas has seen 60 days with temperatures above 100°F this year. The last time that happened was in 1969.
The heat spread to the east coast of the U.S. towards the end of the month.
More than two dozen people died of heat-related complications this summer.
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