NOAA's National Centers for Environmental Information
National Overview
July Highlights
July Temperature
The contiguous U.S. average temperature during July was 75.7°F, 2.1°F above average, ranking eleventh warmest in the 130-year record.
Generally, temperatures were above average across half of the contiguous U.S. and much above average in the West and Northeast.
For the month of July, California and New Hampshire each ranked warmest on record. Nineteen additional states ranked among their top-10 warmest July on record.
The contiguous U.S. average maximum (daytime) temperature during July was 88.4°F, 1.8°F above the 20th century average, ranking nineteenth warmest on record. Maximum temperatures were above average across much of the West from southern California up to Washington, parts of the Northeast and Florida. Near -to below-average temperatures spanned much of the Great Plains and Midwest from southern Texas to the Great Lakes. California and Oregon each ranked warmest for daytime high temperatures in July. No state had their top ten coldest for daytime high temperatures in July.
The contiguous U.S. average minimum (nighttime) temperature during July was 62.98°F, 2.46°F above the 20th century average, ranking sixth warmest in the historical record. Minimum temperatures were above average across much of the Western and Eastern Contigious U.S., with below average nighttime temperatures occurring in the Central Plains and near average nighttime temperatures occurring elsewhere. California, Georgia, and Mississippi each ranked warmest on record, while fourteen additional states experienced a top-5 warmest July for nighttime temperatures.
The Alaska statewide July temperature was 52.8°F, 0.1°F above the long-term average. This ranked in middle third of the 100-year period of record for the state. Monthly temperatures were near average across much of the state, with above average temperatures observed across much of the Northeast Gulf, Aleutians and South Panhandle regions.
Based on NOAA's Residential Energy Demand Temperature Index (REDTI), the contiguous U.S. temperature-related energy demand during July was 205 percent of average and the seventh-highest value in the 130-year period of record.
July Precipitation
The July precipitation total for the contiguous U.S. was 3.04 inches, 0.26 inch above average, ranking in the wettest third of the historical record.
Precipitation was below average across much of the West and Rockies, eastern parts of the Ohio Valley to the Mid-Atlantic, southern Florida and across portions of the Plains. Conversely, precipitation was above average across much of the South, Southeast, Midwest and northern New England.
West Virginia had its eighth driest July on record. Conversely, Illinois had its seventh wettest July and North Carolina had its eighth wettest July on record.
Across the state of Alaska, July 2024 ranked as the wettest July in the historical record. Much of the state was wetter than average for the month of July, with the Central Interior, North Slope, West Coast and Northeast Interior each experiencing their second wettest July.
According to the July 30 U.S. Drought Monitor, about 20% of the contiguous U.S. was in drought, up a little over 1% from the end of June. Drought or abnormally dry conditions expanded or intensified this month across much of the West and Hawaii, and parts of the Central and Northern Plains, the Ohio Valley, the central Appalachians, Tennessee and the Northeast. Drought contracted or was reduced in intensity across much of the Southeast, western portions of the Ohio Valley and parts of Arkansas and Texas.
Billion-Dollar Weather and Climate Disasters
Four new billion-dollar weather and climate disasters were confirmed this month, including one severe weather event that impacted the southern U.S. in mid-May, New Mexico wildfires during June and July, one severe weather event that impacted the central and northeastern U.S (June 24-26) and Hurricane Beryl (July 8-9).
There have been 19 confirmed weather and climate disaster events this year, which is second only to 2023 for the highest amount for the first seven months of the year, each with losses exceeding $1 billion, this year. These disasters consisted of 15 severe storm events, one tropical cyclone event, one wildfire event and two winter storms. The total cost of these events exceeds $49.6 billion, and they have resulted in at least 149 fatalities.
The U.S. has sustained 395 separate weather and climate disasters since 1980 where overall damages/costs reached or exceeded $1 billion (including CPI adjustment to 2024). The total cost of these 395 events exceeds $2.770 trillion.
Other Notable Events
- The Thompson Fire caused over 13,000 people to evacuate around Oroville, California on July 2-3.
- On July 15, a derecho that spawned 32 tornadoes broke the Chicago-area record for most tornadoes in a day.
- The Park Fire began on July 24 and became the fourth-largest wildfire in California history on August 6. By the end of July, it had burned approximately 401,000 acres and destroyed over 560 structures.
A series of heat waves brought record-breaking temperatures to portions of the U.S. during July:
- Palm Springs, California: 124°F on July 5.
- Palmdale, California: 119°F on July 6.
- Redding, California: 118°F on July 6.
- Las Vegas, Nevada: 120°F on July 7.
- Barsow, California: 118°F on July 7 and 8.
- On July 17, Washington D.C. hit 101°F, tying a record for longest streak of temperatures above 100°F with four consecutive days.
- Death Valley observed its hottest month on record, with a monthly mean temperature of 108.5°F. The National Park Service reported numerous heat related illness and injury cases.
On July 1, Hurricane Beryl became the earliest Category 5 hurricane and the second Category 5 on record during the month of July in the Atlantic Ocean.
- Hurricane Beryl made landfall near Matagorda, Texas as a Category 1 hurricane on July 8, causing significant damage, numerous power outages and eight fatalities.
- The Shreveport NWS issued 67 tornado warnings, the most in a single day on July 8 for this office, due to the remnants of Hurricane Beryl.
Year-to-Date Highlights
January-July Temperature
For the January-July period, the average contiguous U.S. temperature was 54.5°F, 3.2°F above average, ranking second warmest on record for this period.
Temperatures were above average across nearly all of the contiguous U.S., while record-warm temperatures were observed in parts of the Northeast, Great Lakes, southern Plains and Mid-Atlantic.
New Hampshire and Vermont both saw their warmest January-July period. An additional 25 states had a top-5 warmest year-to-date period. All states ranked in the warmest third of the historical record during this seven-month period.
The contiguous U.S. average maximum (daytime) temperature during January-July was 66.2°F, 2.9°F above the 20th century average, ranking sixth warmest on record. Above-average temperatures were observed across much of the contiguous U.S. with pockets of near average temperatures evident across parts of the West, Deep South and Northern Plains. Connecticut, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Vermont, Virginia and West Virginia each ranked second warmest on record for daytime temperatures during the January-July period, while 15 additional states ranked among their top-10 warmest January-July on record for daytime temperatures. All states ranked in the warmest third of the historical record during this seven-month period.
The contiguous U.S. average minimum (nighttime) temperature during this seven-month period was 42.8°F, 3.5°F above the 20th century average, ranking second warmest in the historical record. Above-average nighttime temperatures were observed across nearly all of the Lower 48, while record temperatures were observed in parts of the Deep South, Great Lakes and Northeast. Connecticut, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, and West Virginia each ranked warmest on record, while 18 additional states ranked among their top-5 warmest January-July period on record for nighttime temperatures. All states ranked in the warmest third of the historical record during this seven-month period.
The Alaska January-July temperature was 28.6°F, 2.8°F above the long-term average, ranking in the warmest third of the historical record for the state. Much of the state was above-average for the seven-month period while temperatures were near average across parts of the Panhandle.
Based on REDTI, the contiguous U.S. temperature-related energy demand during January-July was 38 percent of average and was the tenth-lowest value on record.
January-July Precipitation
The January-July precipitation total for the contiguous U.S. was 20.44 inches, 2.36 inches above average, ranking 11th wettest in the 130-year record.
Precipitation was above average across a large portion of the Upper Midwest, Northeast, and Deep South as well as in pockets across the contiguous U.S. Rhode Island, Minnesota and Wisconsin each ranked second wettest. Four additional states ranked among their top-10 wettest on record for this seven-month period.
Conversely, precipitation was below average across parts Northwest, northern Plains, and west Texas during the January-July period. No states ranked among their top-10 driest year-to-date period on record.
The January-July precipitation ranked in the wettest third of the 100-year record for Alaska, with below-average precipitation observed in the South Panhandle region, near-average precipitation in the Cook Inlet and Aleutian regions, and above-average precipitation observed across the remaining climate divisions.
Extremes
The U.S. Climate Extremes Index (USCEI) for the year-to-date period was 32 percent above average, ranking sixth highest in the 115-year period of record. Extremes in warm maximum and warm minimum temperatures were the major contributors to this elevated CEI value. The USCEI is an index that tracks extremes (occurring in the upper or lower 10 percent of the record) in temperature, precipitation and drought across the contiguous United States.
On the regional scale, much-above average extremes were experienced across much of the Northeast, Southeast, Ohio Valley and Upper Midwest for this year-to-date period. Each of these regions experienced elevated extremes in warm maximum and warm minimum temperatures, while the Northeast also had elevated extremes in 1-day precipitation and days with precipitation; the Upper Midwest having elevated extremes in 1-day precipitation. Conversely, extremes across the Northern Rockies and Plains were 4 percent below average, ranking in the middle third for the year-to-date period.
Monthly Outlook
According to the July 31 One-Month Outlook from the Climate Prediction Center, above-average temperatures are favored to impact areas across the western and southeastern portions of the U.S. in July, while below-average monthly total precipitation is favored in the Northwest and south-central Plains. Drought is likely to persist in the Northwest, Central Plains and Hawaii.
According to the One-Month Outlook issued on August 1 from the National Interagency Fire Center, portions of the West, Southern Plains, and Hawaii above-normal significant wildland fire potential during August.
Regional Highlights
These regional summaries were provided by the six Regional Climate Centers and reflect conditions in their respective regions. These six regions differ spatially from the nine climatic regions of the National Centers for Environmental Information.
Northeast (Information provided by the Northeast Regional Climate Center)
July was full of extremes including all-time hottest temperatures, intensifying drought, record-setting rainfall, and a record number of tornadoes.
Temperature
The Northeast had its 10th-hottest July since recordkeeping began in 1895 with an average temperature of 72.3 degrees F, 2.2 degrees F above normal. This was the region's eighth warmer-than-normal month in a row: the last cooler-than-normal month was November 2023. July 2024 was record hot for New Hampshire and ranked among the 20 hottest Julys on record for the other 11 Northeast states: Vermont, third hottest; Maine, fourth hottest; Maryland and Massachusetts, ninth hottest; Connecticut and New Jersey, 10th hottest; Rhode Island, 12th hottest; Delaware and Pennsylvania, 13th hottest; and New York and West Virginia, 20th hottest. Average temperatures for the states ranged from 1.4 degrees F above normal in Delaware to 3.5 degrees F above normal in New Hampshire. Hartford, Connecticut, and Albany, New York, experienced their all-time hottest month since records began in 1905 and 1874, respectively. Washington, D.C., and Baltimore, Maryland, saw four consecutive days with a high of at least 100 degrees F, tying as the longest such streak on record for both sites. Baltimore tallied five days with a high of 100 degrees F or higher, tying as its greatest for any month since its records began in 1872. Several sites including Dulles Airport, Virginia; Hartford, Connecticut; and Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, saw their greatest number of days with a low of at least 75 degrees F for any month on record. For additional information on July's extreme heat, see the Notable Weather Events section below.
Precipitation
The Northeast picked up 3.47 inches of precipitation, 80 percent of normal, this July. Ten of the region's 12 states were drier than normal, with precipitation ranging from 53 percent of normal in West Virginia to 108 percent of normal in Vermont. July 2024 was the third-driest July for West Virginia and the 17th-driest for Pennsylvania.
Drought
The U.S. Drought Monitor from July 2 showed 12 percent of the Northeast in moderate or severe drought and 25 percent of the region as abnormally dry. Severe drought was concentrated in western Maryland and eastern West Virginia, while moderate drought extended into portions of those states, as well as Pennsylvania, Delaware, and New Jersey. Abnormal dryness was present in all states except Rhode Island. Conditions deteriorated in parts of the Mid-Atlantic during July as unusually hot temperatures, little precipitation, and enhanced evapotranspiration rates led to further reductions in soil moisture, streamflow, and, in some areas, groundwater levels. Extreme drought was introduced in eastern West Virginia and western Maryland, a first for either state since September 2010, as well as in southern Pennsylvania. The last time at least 1 percent of Pennsylvania was in extreme drought was October 2002. There was also notable expansion of severe and moderate drought in those states. Elsewhere, the variable rainfall pattern led to a mix of deterioration and improvement. For instance, a pocket of moderate drought was introduced in southeastern New Hampshire and central New Jersey but eased in Delaware and eastern Maryland. Similarly, abnormal dryness expanded in southern New Hampshire and southern Maine but eased in western New York and northern Maine. The U.S. Drought Monitor from July 30 showed 21 percent of the Northeast in drought and 19 percent as abnormally dry. During July, some sites, particularly in parts of West Virginia, western Maryland, and southern Pennsylvania, registered record-low streamflow and/or water levels including a few along the Shenandoah River, South Branch Potomac River, Cacapon River, as well as Tygart Dam in West Virginia. Low river flows contributed to algal blooms in the Potomac River Basin. A few wells in the Mid-Atlantic also registered record-low levels. Mandatory water restrictions were enacted in parts of northeastern Massachusetts, while millions of residents in the Mid-Atlantic were asked to conserve water. A USDA report for the week ending July 14 indicated that topsoil moisture was rated adequate for only 2 percent of West Virginia (topsoil moisture was rated very short or short for the other 98 percent of the state) and only 9 percent of Maryland. USDA reports also noted that farmers were hauling water for livestock, feeding hay to cattle as pastures were not grazable, and that portions of crops like soybeans, corn, and hay, as well as some pastures and rangelands, were in very poor or poor condition. In fact, farmers in West Virginia, Maryland, and parts of Pennsylvania reported significant crop losses and stunted, drought-stressed crops such as corn, potatoes, pumpkins, and green beans. In Maryland, one grower reported losing half their sweet corn worth at least $25,000 and another grower expected to lose as much as $11,000 in wheat. Additionally, wildlife looking for food decimated crops and other plants in these three states, causing additional crop losses, resulting in the cancellations of a sunflower festival, and possibly impacting tourism at a state park. Farmers relied heavily on irrigation, in some cases increasing labor and operational costs. For instance, a grower noted an expected 10-fold increase in the farm's water bill due to significant irrigation. The effects of the drought like stunted corn crops (for corn mazes), smaller-than-usual pumpkins, and early leaf drop could impact fall tourism, as well. Additionally, dry conditions led to an increased risk of wildfires in West Virginia and prompted burn bans to be enacted in a few central Pennsylvania communities.
Notable Weather
There were several extreme weather events in the Northeast during July.
- Both high and low temperatures were unusually hot during the first half of July. Washington, D.C., and Baltimore, Maryland, saw four consecutive days (July 14 to 17) with a high of at least 100 degrees F, tying as the longest such streak on record for both sites. During that stretch, both Washington, D.C., and Baltimore reached 104 degrees F, which ranked among their 10 all-time hottest temperatures on record. Baltimore tallied five days with a high of 100 degrees F or higher, tying as its greatest for any month since its records began in 1872. Low temperatures, though, were notable for more areas. For instance, a handful of sites like Albany, New York; Concord, New Hampshire; Allentown, Pennsylvania; and Wilmington, Delaware, saw low temperatures that ranked among their 10 all-time hottest on record. Several sites including Dulles Airport, Virginia; Hartford, Connecticut; and Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, saw their greatest number of days with a low of at least 75 degrees F for any month on record. Washington, D.C. recorded six days with a low of at least 80 degrees F, its second highest tally for any month since its records began in 1872, and saw 15 consecutive days with a low of at least 75 degrees F, its second-longest such streak. The heat disrupted train service serving major cities along the Interstate 95 corridor, caused a bridge in New York City to get stuck open resulting in traffic delays, and contributed to multiple deaths in Maryland.
- The remnants of Hurricane Beryl moved through the Northeast from July 10 to 11, bringing severe weather and torrential rainfall. While multiple funnel clouds were spotted across New York and Pennsylvania, storm surveys done by the National Weather Service confirmed seven tornadoes in New York. Damage generally consisted of downed trees and substantial roof damage, but the strongest tornado, an EF-2 in Erie County, destroyed multiple farm buildings. Oswego County saw its first tornado in over a decade. There were also several instances of damaging straight-line winds of up to 80 mph. Preliminary, unofficial data indicates that the National Weather Service office in Buffalo issued 18 tornado warnings on July 10, which would be its highest number for any day since these unofficial records began in 1986. The Binghamton National Weather Service office issued 21 tornadoes warning on the same day, its second-highest daily tally based on these unofficial records. One of the warnings noted “a confirmed large and extremely dangerous tornado” and that it was “a particularly dangerous situation.” Meanwhile, northern New York and portions of northern New England, particularly Vermont, saw extreme rainfall that led to devastating flooding. Some locations saw between 3 and 7 inches of rain, qualifying as 50-, 100-, or 200-year storm events. For instance, Lowville, New York, saw 6.02 inches of rain in a day, its all-time wettest day since records began in 1891 and qualifying as a 200-year storm event with a 0.5 percent chance of occurring in any given year. The site went on to have its all-time wettest month on record with 10.60 inches of precipitation, its only month with double-digit rainfall. Similarly, as noted by the National Weather Service office in Burlington, Vermont, the St. Johnsbury COOP station saw a daily rainfall total of 4.93 inches, making it the site's third-wettest day since its records began in 1894 (although it was exceeded only 19 days later). That amount qualified as a 100-year storm event, with a one percent chance of occurring in any given year. Multiple waterways spilled their banks, with a few in Vermont reaching one of their five highest levels on record. Floodwaters washed away roads and bridges, inundated buildings, led to evacuations and dozens of water rescues, impacted public water supplies, resulted in crop losses, and contributed to at least two deaths. Flood damage in Lewis County, New York, where Lowville is located, was estimated to be around $50 million.
- The Northeast experienced severe weather daily between July 14 and 17. There were 13 tornadoes in New York. The strongest, an EF-2, caused significant damage to several buildings in Rome (Oneida County), while another tornado in Madison County resulted in one death. Hamilton County saw four tornadoes on July 16, making it the county's greatest number for any day, month, or year since records began in 1950. A tornado also touched down in New Hampshire, damaging between 500 and 1,000 trees. Additionally, there were multiple instances of straight-line winds, with estimated peak winds of up to 100 mph, across the Northeast. Storm reports noted downed trees and power lines that blocked roads and fell onto homes and vehicles, broken power poles, and damage to roofs and siding. Multiple people were injured in relation to fallen trees.
- On July 30, northeastern Vermont was the focus of an intense rain and flooding event. Over five inches of rain fell in a few areas, with the greatest daily total of 8.41 inches reported at a CoCoRaHS site in St. Johnsbury. Preliminary data indicates that amount would be Vermont's greatest daily precipitation total for July and possibly the state's second greatest daily precipitation total for any month. The site accrued 17.73 inches in July, with preliminary data suggesting it would be the second greatest total for July in Vermont. A Flash Flood Emergency, signifying a dangerous, life-threatening situation, was issued for a few locations by the National Weather Service office in Burlington, Vermont. The flooding destroyed several homes and damaged dozens of others, washed away roads, and led to evacuations and swift water rescues.
- During July, New York saw a preliminary total of 23 tornadoes, more than any other month since records began in 1950. The state averages two tornadoes in July and nine annually. Based on preliminary, unofficial data, 57 tornado warnings were issued in New York this July, more than any other month for New York since unofficial records began in 1986 and making it the greatest number of tornadoes warnings issued for any U.S. state this July. That tally included 30 tornado warnings issued by the Binghamton National Weather Service office and 22 issued by the Buffalo National Weather Service office, an unofficial record-high number for any month on record for both offices.
- Other items of note included smoke from wildfires burning in the western U.S. and Canada causing hazy skies in the region in late July and multiple instances of algal blooms and/or increased bacteria causing beaches and lakes to close throughout the month.
For more information, please visit the Northeast Regional Climate Center Home Page.
Midwest Region (Information provided by the Midwestern Regional Climate Center)
Temperature
The preliminary average July temperature for the Midwest was 72.2 degrees F (22.3 degrees C), which was 0.5 degrees F (0.3 degrees C) below the 1991-2020 normal. This breaks an 11 consecutive month stretch of above-normal monthly temperatures for the Midwest region. Temperatures were 1-3 degrees F (0.6-1.7 degrees C) below normal in the central Midwest, with slightly above-normal temperatures in the far northwest and far southeast portions of the region. Preliminary statewide average temperatures ranged from 1.5 degrees F (0.8 degrees C) below normal in Illinois to 0.6 degrees F (0.3 degrees C) above normal in Minnesota. Near-average to cooler-than-average daytime highs were notable across the region in July. Only one station across the region, in southwest Missouri on July 3, reached a triple-digit temperature during the entire month. On July 19th, Decatur, Illinois recorded a minimum temperature of 49 degrees F (9.4 degrees C). This was just the third time in the last 40 years that this station dipped below 50 degrees F (10 degrees C) in the month of July.
Precipitation
Preliminary July precipitation totaled 4.88 inches (124 mm) for the Midwest, which was 0.78 inches (20 mm) above normal, or 119 percent of normal. Precipitation was 1-6 inches (25.4-152.4 mm) above normal in the central Midwest, with deficits of 1-3 inches (25.4-76.2 mm) in the far northern and far eastern portions of the region. Preliminary statewide precipitation totals ranged from 2.81 inches (71 mm) above normal in Illinois to 0.81 inches (21 mm) below normal in Ohio. Preliminary rankings indicate that Illinois had the 4th wettest July on record. Numerous long-running stations had a top five wettest July including Jackson (MI), Cedar Rapids (IA), Flint (MI), Winnebago (MN), and Sioux City (IA). Columbia, Missouri had its 3rd wettest July since 1889 with 11.23 inches (285.2 mm) of rain, of which 10.15 inches (257.8 mm) fell during the seven-day period from July 3-9, 2024 (2nd highest 7-day total on record). July rainfall around a wide swath of the St. Louis area, including portions of western Illinois, totaled 12-16 inches (304.8-406.4 mm) from the CoCoRaHS network. Repeated storms and rainmaking events plagued the Midwest, with measurable precipitation recorded on 11-16 days across much of the region. Two notable events are further detailed below. However, much of Ohio missed out on the soaking rains during July. Mansfield, in north-central Ohio, had its third driest July in 105 years with just 1.24 inches (31.5 mm) of rain. Drought conditions expanded in Ohio with 40 percent of the state ending the month in drought and 32 percent abnormally dry.
Remnants of Hurricane Beryl
On July 9-10, the remnants of Hurricane Beryl traversed the Midwest, dumping 2-9 inches (50.8-228.6 mm) of rain along a line from southern Missouri to eastern Michigan. The storm also blanketed the region with 35-45 mph (56.3-72.4 kph) wind gusts, minor to moderate river flooding, and a few tornadoes.
July 15-16 Derecho
A widespread, long-lived windstorm (derecho) moved across Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, and southern Michigan on July 15-16. This storm system was accompanied by heavy rainfall, 60-100 mph (96.6-160.9 kph) wind gusts, and numerous tornadoes that resulted in widespread power outages, downed trees, and damaged structures. At least 54 tornadoes were confirmed by National Weather Service offices across the region. The Chicagoland area had its largest single-day tornado outbreak on record with 32 confirmed tornadoes on July 15.
For further details on the weather and climate events in the Midwest, see the weekly and monthly reports at the Midwestern Climate Summaries page.
Southeast (Information provided by the Southeast Regional Climate Center)
Temperature
Temperatures were above average across most of the Southeast in July. The greatest departures were found across central and northern portions of Florida, Georgia, and Virginia, as well as western portions of North Carolina, where mean temperatures were 3 to 4 degrees F (1.8 to 2.2 degrees C) above average for the month. After recording its warmest June on record, Punta Gorda, FL (1914-2024) recorded its warmest month on record with a mean temperature of 86.7 degrees F (30.4 degrees C), breaking the previous record of 86.3 degrees F (30.2 degrees C) set in August 2023. A few other locations recorded their warmest July on record, as well as one of their warmest months on record, including Orlando, FL (1892-2024; second warmest all-time), Valdosta, GA (1948-2024; second warmest all-time), San Juan, PR (1898-2024; third warmest all-time), and Fort Lauderdale, FL (1912-2024; sixth warmest all-time). Several other locations recorded one of their warmest Julys on record. Daytona Beach, FL (1923-2024), Key West, FL (1871-2024), and Saint Croix (1951-2024) recorded their second warmest July on record; Tallahassee, FL (1896-2024), Vero Beach, FL (1942-2024), and Roanoke, VA (1912-2024) recorded their third warmest July on record; West Palm Beach, FL (1888-2024), Sarasota, FL (1911-2024), Miami, FL (1895-2024), Charleston, SC (1938-2024), and Washington D.C. (1871-2024) recorded their fourth warmest July on record; Jacksonville, FL (1871-2024), Tampa, FL (1890-2024), and Raleigh-Durham, NC (1887-2024) tied their fourth warmest July on record; Fort Myers, FL (1902-2024) recorded its fifth warmest July on record, while Charlotte, NC (1878-2024) tied its fifth warmest July on record.
There were multiple periods of extreme heat in July. Several locations stretching from central Georgia to southern Virginia eclipsed the century mark between the 4th and 6th of the month. Raleigh-Durham, NC (1887-2024) recorded its all-time highest temperature of 106 degrees F (41.1 degrees C) on the 5th, breaking the previous record of 105 degrees F (40.6 degrees C) that had been set six times previously, most recently in 2012. The heat index on this day also reached 117 degrees F (47.2 degrees C), which broke the previous record of 115 degrees F (46.1 degrees C) set last August in a record going back to 1945. Heat index values also exceeded 110 degrees F (43.3 degrees C) around Charleston, SC, with Mount Pleasant recording a value of 116 degrees F (46.7 degrees C) on the 6th. A few days later, the heat index topped 105 degrees F (40.6 degrees C) across northern Virginia, with some places, such as Quantico Marine Base, exceeding 110 degrees F (43.3 degrees C). Another round of extreme heat was observed between the 14th and 17th. During this four-day period, Washington's Reagan National Airport recorded temperatures of at least 101 degrees F (38.3 degrees C), which is the longest such streak on record, breaking the previous streak of three consecutive days set back in 1930. The temperature at Reagan National reached 104 degrees F (40 degrees C) on the 16th, which is just 2 degrees F (1.1 degrees C) shy of its highest temperature on record. Roanoke, VA reached 103 degrees F (39.4 degrees C) the day prior, which is the warmest temperature recorded in over a decade. On the 14th, Myrtle Beach, SC recorded a dew point temperature of 85 degrees F (29.4 degrees C), which tied its highest value on record (since 1942).
Minimum temperatures were also exceptionally warm in places. San Juan, PR tied its all-time warmest minimum temperature of 83 degrees F (28.3 degrees C) on the 4th and again on the 26th. West Palm Beach, FL and Fort Lauderdale, FL tied their second warmest all-time minimum temperature of 84 degrees F (28.9 degrees C) on the 24th, which is just 1 degree F (0.5 degrees C) shy of their all-time warmest minimum temperature on record. Miami, FL also tied its second warmest all-time minimum temperature of 83 degrees F (28.3 degrees C) on the 18th and again on the 25th, which is also just 1 degree F (0.5 degrees F) shy of its all-time warmest minimum temperature on record. For the month, Washington's Reagan National Airport recorded six days with a minimum temperature of at least 80 degrees F (26.7 degrees C), which is the second most such days of any month, just one short of the record of seven days set in July 2011.
Precipitation
Following a mostly dry June, precipitation in July was above average across a large portion of the Southeast. The wettest locations were found across central portions of Alabama, Georgia, and South Carolina, northeast Florida, southern Georgia, most of North Carolina, and southern Virginia, where monthly totals were 4 to 8 inches (102 to 203 mm) above average (150 to 300 percent of normal). Many locations recorded over 10 inches (254 mm) of precipitation, with some locations recording more than 15 inches (381 mm) for the month. Anniston, AL and Asheville, NC both recorded 10.03 inches (255 mm) for the month, while Augusta, GA recorded 9.49 inches (241 mm), which were more than double their average monthly totals. Atlanta, GA (1878-2024) recorded 14.02 inches (356 mm), making it the fourth wettest July and seventh wettest month on record. Mount Vernon, GA (1893-2024) recorded its second wettest month on record with 17.60 inches (447 mm). Of this, 6.80 inches (173 mm) fell on the 25th, making it the second wettest day on record. Valdosta, GA (1948-2024) recorded 3.64 inches (92 mm) on the 17th, making it the second wettest July day on record. Little Mountain, SC, located near Columbia, recorded its wettest July and fourth wettest month on record with 13.42 inches (341 mm), which was more than 300 percent of normal. New Bern, NC (1933-2024) recorded 12.31 inches (313 mm), making it the third wettest month on record, while nearby Washington, NC (1946-2024) recorded 17.84 inches (453 mm), which is the fourth wettest month on record. Clarksville, VA (1891-2024), located just over the border from North Carolina, recorded 4.5 inches (114 mm) on the 18th, making it the second wettest July day on record.
In contrast, drier than average conditions were found across parts of the Florida Peninsula and northern Virginia. Marathon Key, FL recorded 1.04 inches (26 mm) for the month, which was only 25 percent of normal. West Palm Beach, FL and Fort Lauderdale, FL each recorded less than half of their expected monthly totals. Harrisonburg, VA (1893-2024) recorded just 0.98 inches (25 mm) for the month, making it the fourth driest July on record. Precipitation was below average across much of Puerto Rico. Monthly totals were near average on Saint Croix and above average on Saint Thomas and Saint John.
Drought
July began with over half of the region in at least moderate (D1) drought, while another third of the region was abnormally-dry (D0). Areas of severe (D2) drought were found across parts of Virginia, the Carolinas, and Georgia. In contrast, much of South Florida and the northwest Panhandle, as well as southern Alabama, were free of any drought or abnormal dryness. By the end of the month, drought conditions had been eliminated across Florida, much of Alabama and Georgia, and eastern portions of North Carolina and Virginia, with just a few pockets of abnormal dryness (D0) remaining. Moderate (D1) drought persisted across much of the interior of the region, with small pockets of severe (D2) drought emerging across northern portions of Alabama and Georgia. Drought conditions also worsened across eastern portions of South Carolina and northern Virginia, with extreme (D3) drought emerging during the month. For the second consecutive month, the Caribbean was free of any drought or abnormal dryness.
Agriculture
Dryland corn was in generally poor condition due to the heat and dryness during the critical pollination stage. Because initial planting was delayed by heavy rains, much of the corn tasseled during subsequent dry conditions, which led to stunted growth and reduced ear production. On the other hand, corn that received adequate irrigation benefited from above-average temperatures, progressing ahead in development. Nevertheless, parts of Virginia reported losses of up to two-thirds of the corn crop due to the prolonged dry period that began in mid-May. Other crops, including soybeans, peanuts, sorghum, cotton, and tobacco, were also stressed due to dry soils. The lack of moisture significantly hindered their growth, leading to reduced yields. Egg production in northern Virginia dropped by as much as 30 percent due to the extreme temperatures. Summer pastures did not grow sufficiently, forcing farmers to buy feed for their cattle or sell them earlier than planned. Many farmers have only been able to make one cutting of hay this season. Fall armyworms were reported in dry hay fields in eastern parts of the Carolinas and coastal Alabama. Pumpkins planted earlier in the summer showed slow growth, indicating potential low yields this fall. Precipitation that fell later in the month improved field conditions and pastures in some areas, but also contributed to diseases like white mold and an increase in pests and insects.
Notable Weather
There were 556 reports of severe weather across the Southeast in July, which is below the median frequency of 632 reports over the period 2000-2023 (88 percent of normal). There were just two confirmed tornadoes, which is below the median frequency of 10 (20 percent of normal). On the 23rd, an EF-0 tornado caused minor damage to a trailer and carport in Polk County, FL. The next day, an EF-1 tornado dropped down in Halifax County, VA, uprooting and snapping several trees and causing minor damage to some structures. There were 541 wind reports in July, which is close to the median frequency 566 reports (96 percent of normal). The highest recorded wind gust was 71 mph (32 m/s) at Pope Field near Fayetteville, NC on the 15th. Augusta, GA recorded a 68 mph (30 m/s) gust on the 17th. One person died after a tree fell onto an apartment building during a thunderstorm in Charlotte, NC on the 22nd. The outer bands of Hurricane Beryl produced winds of 40 to 50 mph (18 to 22 m/s) in Puerto Rico on the 2nd that brought down trees and power lines. Strong winds also contributed to rough surf and coastal flooding, with many roads inundated with water and sand. There were 10 hail reports in July, which is well below the median frequency of 57 reports (18 percent of normal). The largest hailstones were 1.5 inches (38 mm), or ping pong ball-sized, recorded in Gordon County, GA on the 9th and Greensville County, VA on the 18th, the latter causing damage to several vehicles.
Heavy precipitation on the 1st and 2nd resulted in flash flooding and numerous road closures in Charleston, SC. Some locations recorded up to 7 inches (178 mm) of precipitation. Flash flooding was also reported across the Triangle region of North Carolina on the 22nd, with some locations recording up to 3 inches (76 mm) in just a few hours. Numerous vehicles were inundated and stranded on roadways. More flooding occurred in the Jacksonville, FL area on the 27th, resulting in more stranded vehicles. The field at Everbank Stadium, home of the Jacksonville Jaguars, was also flooded. On the 31st, the tropical wave that would become Hurricane Debby dropped up to 3 inches (76 mm) of rain on Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Significant plumes of dust from the Saharan Desert reached parts of Florida in the middle of the month, resulting in vivid sunrises and sunsets, and reached the Caribbean on the 25th and 26th, resulting in hazy skies over Puerto Rico. There were at least two dozen reports of lightning strikes to houses and structures during the month. Several of these resulted in fires and significant damage, including a 200-year-old church in Pike County, GA that burned down after being struck on the 17th. Four teenagers were injured by a lightning strike while taking cover under a tree in downtown Saint Petersburg, FL on the 25th. Another teenager was injured after being struck by lightning while mowing in his neighbor's yard in Seminole County, FL on the 15th. Unfortunately, one person was killed after being struck at a flea market in Lee County, AL on the 20th. There were also seven rip current deaths in July, four in North Carolina, one in South Carolina, one in Florida, and one in Puerto Rico.
For more information, please visit the Southeast Regional Climate Center Home Page.
High Plains (Information provided by the High Plains Regional Climate Center)
After staying relatively cool over the past two months, the north and northwestern parts of the High Plains were boiling hot this month. Average high temperatures this month in parts of Montana, the Dakotas, and Wyoming were above 90 degrees F (32.2 degrees C), with several bouts of extreme heat striking. Typical of the summertime months, precipitation was sporadic and often brought severe weather.
The places within the region that did receive rain this month were hampered by severe weather, with several devastating hailstorms striking this month. This month's hardest hit places were central and eastern Nebraska, southwestern Kansas, and southeastern Colorado. Corn was in great shape in central Nebraska, with minimal irrigation taking place due to the ample precipitation this year. A nasty storm on the 6th annihilated thousands of acres in a stretch from Gothenburg to Hastings. Wind gusts of over 70 mph (112 km/h) and hailstones over 2.5 inches (6.35 cm) shredded fields for over 100 miles. An untold amount of damage occurred and left farmers facing a tough situation going forward.
The heat impacting the northern and western parts of the region was not just limited to the lower elevation, with parts of Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming having record stretches of warmth. Parkers Peak observed its hottest 7 and 14-day stretches on record this month, with temperatures peaking at 86 degrees F (30 degrees C) on the 24th. At 9,400 feet (2.87 km) above sea level, such a temperature is very rare.
Temperature
Despite the presence of a brutal heatwave this month, temperatures were near normal. Parts of western North Dakota were the warmest, with average temperatures 3 to 6 degrees F (1.7 to 3.3 degrees C) above normal.
An extended stretch of heat hit the northwestern part of the region, including Montana. Many places recorded their longest streaks of 90 degrees F (32.2 degrees C), while the heat carried over into parts of the Dakotas and Wyoming. Highs reached near 110 degrees F (43.3 degrees C) in parts of North Dakota, nearly breaking some all-time records.
Limiting the overall temperature was the cooler start to July. Temperatures were over 10 degrees (5.6 degrees C) below normal to start the month in parts of the region. The 4th of July was pleasant for many, with some places 15 degrees F (8.3 degrees C) below normal.
Precipitation
For the most part, the High Plains were dry this month and some places were below five percent of their normal precipitation. The storms this month, particularly in Nebraska, were impactful with extreme winds and large hail.
July began with several damaging hailstorms in Nebraska but was relatively quiet until the last day of the month. Extreme winds of over 90 mph (145 km/h) shredded Lincoln and Omaha, with over 250,000 without power. Roughly half of Omaha was without power, the largest outage in the history for the city. The exceptional wind gusts caused extensive tree damage and even structural damage to several businesses and schools. Estimates for the damage will come in the following weeks, but it was likely one of the most expensive storms for Omaha.
The dryness across the Front Range in Colorado finally took its toll, with numerous wildfires breaking out late in the month. Precipitation in the area has been below 50 percent for the past few months, leaving plenty of dried-up fuel for fires. Evacuations were ordered and thick clouds of smoke engulfed cities like Fort Collins. Thousands of acres were in flames at the end of the month, but the arrival of monsoonal rains could provide some relief.
Drought
In part due to the dryness and occasional heat this month, drought expanded and intensified for many. Portions of the southern High Plains experienced a two-category degradation, while over half the region is now in some form of drought category. Overall, the High Plains observed an 11 percent increase in D0 to D4 (abnormally dry to exceptional drought conditions).
The dryness plaguing Wyoming has led to a nine percent increase in D2 (severe drought), with most of this along the state's eastern border. Nearly the entire state is in D0 to D4, but there is some hope that upcoming rains due to the North American Monsoon could help improve the ongoing situation.
Conditions in Kansas had improved this winter and into early spring, however, the state has taken a step back this month. D0 to D4 increased over 34 percent this month alone, with nearly 90 percent of the state engulfed at the end of July.
For more information, please visit the High Plains Regional Climate Center Home Page.
South (Information provided by the Southern Regional Climate Center)
Hurricane Beryl in early July brought heavy rains and winds to large portions of the Southern Region.
Temperature
Temperatures were split across the Region with above normal temperatures in the western portions of the Region, below normal temperatures in the center, and above normal temperatures in the east of the Region. The Region of below normal temperatures stretched from Deep South Texas, northeastward to Western Tennessee with temperatures one to three degrees below normal. This area corresponds well with the track of Hurricane Beryl in early July. Statewide rankings were above normal for: Mississippi (28th warmest, out of 130 years), Tennessee (36th warmest), and Louisiana (48th warmest). Statewide rankings were below normal for: Oklahoma (43rd coolest) and Arkansas (46th coolest). While Texas and the Southern Region as a whole were near their historical median values. The hottest recorded temperature in the Region for July was 114 F, which occurred at Rio Grande Village, Texas on July 31st. The coldest temperature recorded in the Region during July was 47 F, which occurred at Mt. Leconte, Tennessee on July 15th. The coldest lowland temperatures during July was 48 F, which occurred at Portland, Tennessee on July 10th. No long-term stations set records for lowest or highest temperatures in July. All six states in the Southern Region experienced high temperatures over 100 F during the month of July.
Precipitation
Precipitation was mixed across the Southern Region with below normal precipitation in the west, well above normal precipitation in the central portions, and near normal in the East. A line stretching from Brownsville, Texas up through Union City, Tennessee generally saw more than 200 percent of normal precipitation during July, much of this was early in the month and associated with Hurricane Beryl moving across the Region. Statewide ranking for July were above normal for: Louisiana (17th wettest), Texas (20th wettest), Arkansas (21st wettest), and the Southern Region as a whole (22nd wettest). Tennessee, as a state, was below normal (33rd driest). Mississippi and Oklahoma were near their historical median values for July. Three stations, all in Texas, exceeded 25 inches of accumulated rainfall during July: near Galveston, Texas (28.93 inches), near Texas City, Texas (28.93 inches), and near the Woodlands, Texas (26.14 inches). Outside of Texas, the highest precipitation total in the Region for July was near Noble, Louisiana (24.32 inches). The highest one-day precipitation totals for July were in Texas, where four stations exceeded ten inches of rainfall: near Freeport, Texas (11.26 inches), Lake Jackson 2.3 NW, Lake Jackson 1.6 E, and near The Woodlands, Texas (10.11 inches). Sixteen long-term stations in the Southern Region, spread across Texas, Louisiana, and Arkansas set single day accumulation records for July. The greatest difference between the old and new records was 2.99 inches at Morrilton, Arkansas (104 years of data), with the new record of 6.54 inches set on July 9th topping the old record of 3.55 inches set on July 2nd 2002.
Drought/Flooding
As of July 30th, 9.27 percent of the Southern Region remained drought free, down 3.42 percent from 12.69 percent of July 2nd according to the US Drought Monitor. Most of the improvement was in areas experiencing Moderate Drought. Areas experiencing Severe Drought or worse held steady in July ending with 6.85 percent of the Southern Region in D2 or worse. Extreme and Exceptional drought at this time is restricted to the Big Bend area of Texas and Central Texas. Southwestern Oklahoma, northcentral Mississippi, and Tennessee are areas where Moderate Drought is persisting. Louisiana, East Texas, much of the Texas Panhandle, southeastern Oklahoma, southern Arkansas, southern Mississippi, and northern Tennessee remain drought free as of July 30th. Relatively wetter conditions and somewhat more moderate temperatures have aided the cotton crop in Texas, Oklahoma, and Louisiana with 40 percent (23 percent higher than last year), 61 percent (6 percent higher), and 82 percent (3 percent higher) reported as being in Good to Excellent condition by the USDA on July 28th. Crops in Tennessee, Mississippi, and Arkansas are off last year's pace somewhat with 53 percent (24 percent lower), 55 percent (12 percent lower), and 75 percent (3 percent lower) due to drier and warmer conditions in these states. Flooding in the path of Hurricane Beryl in early July was prevalent from Houston heading northwest to Tennessee, due to many areas being already saturated from rainfall earlier in the season.
Notable Weather
Hurricane Beryl formed in the tropical Atlantic on June 28th, strengthening to a Category 5 hurricane as it made its way across the Caribbean, Mexico, and the Gulf of Mexico before making landfall again near Matagorda, Texas as a Category 1 hurricane on the morning of July 8th. As Beryl moved inland, massive power outages and flooding occurred in the Houston area. As Beryl weakened it continued to deliver heavy rain and flooding in already saturated areas of East Texas, Arkansas, Tennessee, and beyond to the US Northeast and Atlantic Canada. The death toll from Hurricane Beryl in the US has continued to rise in the weeks following the storm. As of late July 2024, official reports indicate at least 36 deaths can be attributed to Beryl, with many of those caused by the sweltering heat in the aftermath of the storm due to widespread power outages.
There were 49 confirmed tornadoes in the Southern Region during the month of July, impacting the states of Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana, Tennessee, and Mississippi. The majority of these were associated with Hurricane Beryl in early July. The counts and rating of the tornadoes were: 12 EF0, 30 EF1, and 7 EF2. There were five injuries and one fatality associated with these storms, all occurring on July 8th. In Bossier Parish, Louisiana an EF2 tornado injured two and killed one. An EF1 in Bethany, Texas injured one. An EF1 in Huxley, Louisiana injured one. While an EF2 in Jasper, Texas injured one. There were 21 hail reports across the Region in July, the largest being 1.5 inches reported twelve miles east of Palo Duro Canyon in Armstrong County, Texas which damaged three recreational vehicles. There were 200 severe winds reports in July with the fastest being 81 mph on July 4th near Ada, Oklahoma.
For more information, please visit the Southern Regional Climate Center Home Page.
West (Information provided by the Western Region Climate Center)
July was an exceptionally warm month for the West with record setting heat at many long-term climate stations. Monthly mean temperature records were broken but several all-time daily maximum temperature records were also set. It was also a dry month for much of the West and the combination of heat and limited moisture led to drought expansion in some regions; wildfire activity also saw a big uptick.
Temperature
Most of the West experienced above normal temperatures in July with anomalies of +3 to +7 degrees Fahrenheit found throughout Arizona, California, Nevada, Oregon, Washington, and Idaho. Many new July mean temperature records were set at long-term climate stations in several states such Reno and Las Vegas in Nevada, Sacramento, Fresno, Bakersfield, and Death Valley in California, and Portland, Salem, Eugene, and Redmond in Oregon. Death Valley, California recorded its warmest month in 102 years of records with a monthly mean temperature of 108.5 degrees Fahrenheit. Las Vegas, Nevada broke several records including the hottest July at 99.9 degrees Fahrenheit and the all-time daily maximum temperature of 120 degrees Fahrenheit which occurred on July 7; remarkably the previous all-time high was 117 degrees Fahrenheit and this July 118 degrees Fahrenheit occurred twice (July 10 and 11) and 119 occurred once (July 9). Parts of central and eastern New Mexico were spared the heat and saw near-to-slightly-below normal temperatures.
Precipitation
Below normal precipitation occurred for much of the West except for some isolated areas in the Great Basin and parts of Arizona and New Mexico. Climatologically, July is one of the driest months in West except for the core monsoon states of Arizona and New Mexico. Most of Arizona saw below normal precipitation with some parts receiving less than 50 percent of normal; isolated parts of the state were above normal. Bright Angel Ranger Station in the Grand Canyon, Arizona received 0.30 inches of precipitation (17 percent of normal) and was the fourth driest on record. Much of New Mexico saw above normal precipitation with some locations more than 200 percent of normal. Grand Quivira National Monument had its second wettest July with 6.12 inches of precipitation (217 percent of normal) and Portales received 5.14 inches (224 percent of normal). Southwest Montana was notably dry with monthly departures of more than one inch for some locations. Butte, Montana had its eighth driest July with just 0.19 inches of precipitation (16 percent of normal).
Drought
According to the U.S. Drought Monitor (USDM) at the end of July, 29 percent of the West was in drought. Areas of extreme (D3) drought are found in southern New Mexico with D3 and exceptional drought (D4) in western Montana. Spatially, the greatest drought expansion occurred in Oregon with most of the state now in abnormally dry (D0) or moderate drought (D1). Monsoon rains have helped to reduce some of the spatial extent and severity of drought in New Mexico.
Alaska Summary
Alaska saw below normal temperatures in most of the state with anomalies generally -1 to -4 degrees Fahrenheit. The Panhandle saw near-to-slightly-above normal temperatures. Mean monthly temperature anomalies were -1.3 degrees Fahrenheit at Anchorage, -1.6 degrees Fahrenheit at Fairbanks, and -4.3 degrees Fahrenheit at Kotzebue. It was a wet month for most of Alaska with several long-term stations in the top ten wettest Julys. In the Panhandle, Juneau had its wettest July on record with 12.21 inches of precipitation (238 percent of normal) and Sitka saw the third wettest July with 9.56 inches (207 percent of normal). Nome recorded 6.16 inches of precipitation (262 percent of normal), Anchorage received 4.03 inches (221 percent of normal), and Fairbank saw 4.18 inches (185 percent).
Hawaii Summary
Below normal precipitation occurred throughout Hawaii with many stations reporting less than 50 percent of normal. Honolulu tied the record for driest July (also occurred in 2017) with 0.02 inches of precipitation (4 percent of normal) and Lihue also saw its driest July with 0.64 inches of precipitation (37 percent of normal). Hilo had its tenth driest July with 4.84 inches of precipitation (52 percent of normal). Dryness led to increased extent of drought by the end of July with 55 percent of the state in drought. Severe drought (D2) was found only on the Big Island and Molokai with no D3 or D4 present in the state.
Notable Weather
Death Valley observed hottest month ever: The Furnace Creek Visitors Center, in Death Valley, California, recorded a monthly mean temperature of 108.5 degrees Fahrenheit making it the hottest month in the stations record that dates back to 1911. Nine days in July had a maximum temperature of 125 degrees Fahrenheit of higher which is the second most on record (1913 had ten days above this threshold). The National Park Service reported numerous heat related illness and injury cases including a man who had to be rescued after losing his flip flops and receiving second degree burns on his feet.
For more information, please go to the Western Regional Climate Center Home Page.