Archive · 18 Jul 2026
US Faces Triple Extreme Summer Weather Threats
The United States is currently experiencing three major weather threats at the same time.
In the East, smoke from wildfires in Canada has made the air unhealthy for millions of people.
In the South, Texas is dealing with severe flooding after days of heavy rain.
In the West, there are many large wildfires burning, and more are starting.
Scientists say these extreme weather events are linked to climate change, which is making the weather more dangerous.
People are being told to stay inside, and firefighters are working hard to control the fires.
The situation is expected to improve slowly, with rain forecasted to help clear the smoke in the East and the flooding in Texas to ease.
Wildfire smoke from Canada has caused hazardous air quality in the eastern US, with Chicago's air quality ranking second-worst in the world.
Texas's Hill Country experienced catastrophic flash flooding, with over 27 inches of rain in some areas, resulting in two confirmed deaths.
There are 68 large fires burning in 15 states, with 17,400 personnel and 140 helicopters deployed to combat the blazes.
Nearly 3.72 million acres have burned nationwide this year, outpacing last year's mid-July tally by over 1 million acres.
Scientists link the extreme weather events to a phenomenon called 'resonance' in the jet stream, which is amplified by human-driven climate change.
- Who
- Millions of Americans, firefighters, and local officials.
- What
- Simultaneous extreme weather events including wildfires, floods, and hazardous air quality.
- When
- Ongoing, with significant events occurring on Friday.
- Where
- Across the United States, particularly in the East, South, and West.
- Why
- Due to a combination of natural weather patterns and human-driven climate change.
Climate Change Deniers
Climate Scientists
Cause of Extreme Weather
Climate Change Deniers
Extreme weather events are part of natural climate variability and not directly linked to human activities.
Climate Scientists
Human-driven climate change has significantly increased the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, including wildfires, floods, and heatwaves.
- Number of Large Fires
- 68
- States Affected by Fires
- 15
- Personnel Deployed
- 17,400+
- Helicopters Deployed
- 140
- Acres Burned Nationwide
- 3.72 million
- Air Quality Ranking
- Chicago's air quality was second-worst in the world on Friday.
- Rainfall in Texas
- Over 27 inches in some areas since Tuesday.
- Fatalities in Texas Floods
- 2 confirmed deaths.
