July 2026: Contiguous US significantly above 20th‑century average

Marked departure from the long-term average

The contiguous United States (CONUS) recorded an average temperature of 76.9 °F (24.9 °C) in July 2026. That represents an anomaly of 3.3 °F (1.8 °C) above the 20th‑century mean, the U.S. climate agency reports.

The significance of the heat

Higher mean temperatures typically come with more hot days, warmer nights and longer periods of heat stress. Cities are particularly affected because dense development and paved surfaces limit nighttime cooling and amplify urban heat island effects.

Regional distribution and direct impacts

Above‑average temperatures covered large parts of the country. Agricultural regions reported heat stress on crops and livestock, leading to increased water demand and in some cases reduced yields. Electricity consumption rose due to cooling and air conditioning, while grids and power plants can reach thermal limits.

Health and air quality

Heat waves raise the risk of heat‑related illnesses, especially among older adults, children and outdoor workers. Local emergency plans, warning systems and provision of cool spaces become more important. High temperatures also often worsen air quality by promoting ozone formation.

Context within the climate trend

A single month does not by itself prove climate change, but it fits into the longer‑term warming trend. Rising baseline temperatures increase the likelihood and intensity of extreme heat events. Short‑term weather patterns can shape monthly values, yet a warmer baseline shifts the odds of record highs upward.

Ecosystems and water balance

High temperatures accelerate soil drying, raise wildfire risk and alter growing seasons. In water‑scarce areas, demand for irrigation and urban water use increases. Hydrological effects often appear with a delay, for example through falling groundwater levels or lower river flows.

Adaptation and preparedness

Cities can mitigate heat with more green space, shade, reflective surfaces and cooler building materials. Power systems benefit from demand management, grid reinforcement and flexible generation. In health care, early warnings, public information campaigns and accessible cooling centers help. In agriculture, options range from adjusted planting schedules and drought‑tolerant varieties to more efficient irrigation.

Outlook

July 2026 confirms the trend toward higher average temperatures in the United States and underscores the need to adapt heat protection, infrastructure and resource management to more frequent and intense heat events.