Upstream heating fueled the record-breaking Pacific Northwest heatwave of 2021
In short: A study of the unprecedented June 2021 heatwave in the Pacific Northwest found that upstream diabatic heating was a primary driver of the extreme temperatures. The event saw many locations shatter all-time records by more than 5 °C, including a new Canadian national record of 49.6 °C.
The heatwave caused catastrophic consequences, ranging from hundreds of deaths and mass marine life mortality to reduced crop yields and increased wildfire activity. While weather forecasts provided some notice, sub-seasonal models were able to predict an increased likelihood of the extreme event 10 to 20 days in advance.
This research provides a comprehensive summary of the event's mechanisms and impacts to illustrate how climate change can manifest as devastating extremes. The study is based on an observational analysis of the specific meteorological conditions during the heatwave.
Why it matters: Understanding the mechanisms behind extreme heatwaves helps improve our ability to forecast and prepare for devastating climate impacts.
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Sources
- Source: Research: White et al. (2023). The unprecedented Pacific Northwest heatwave of June 2021. Nature Communications. · cc-by
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