While summer has not officially arrived, temperatures are rising nationwide. Parts of the Dakotas are forecasted to reach the 90s this weekend for the first time this year, surpassing the 87 degrees recorded in Atlanta. This unusual warmth is a precursor to consistently hot days approaching. In 2025, the year is already starting on a warm note and is projected to potentially rank as the Earth’s second hottest year on record. The Climate Prediction Center anticipates above-average temperatures for the majority of the country in the upcoming months, with the exception of the Upper Midwest.
The heightened temperatures can lead to threats such as wildfires and drought conditions, expected to be more prevalent this year. The National Interagency Fire Center has issued warnings for elevated wildland fire potential in various regions, including the Southeast, Southern Plains, West Coast, and northern Rockies from May through August.
To stay safe during the summer months, take precautions against extreme heat, the primary weather-related killer in the U.S. Establish good habits regarding hydration and nutrition to prepare your body for the upcoming heat. Stay informed about weather forecasts and heat alerts from local National Weather Service offices. If you reside in a wildfire-affected area, stock up on essentials and have an evacuation plan ready in case of emergencies.
Sara Tonks, a meteorologist at weather.com, holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Earth and Atmospheric Sciences from Georgia Tech, as well as a master’s degree in Marine Science from Unity Environmental University.
