Another One Down

And now trees are falling for no apparent reason whatsoever.  No storm, no winds, no rain, but around 11:30 last night a major limb coprising the top half of a large tree suddenly decided it was time to meet the street. Fortunately, the power lines are on the opposite side of the road, so we didn't lose power (and air conditioning). A kind neighbor moved some of the branches on the right-hand side of the street so cars can get by.

The dangerous heat wave that has affected hundreds of millions in the U.S. is set to intensify, especially in the West. Currently, more than 100 million people are under heat warnings as the extreme temperatures spread to California and other areas. Texas, Florida and Arizona are still navigating extreme heat and  Death Valley could reach the hottest recorded temperature ever on Planet Earth.

At least six people were rescued as parts of Mississippi are experiencing flooding after intense rain, impacting roads, homes, and businesses. Cleanup efforts are still underway in Vermont after historic flooding, and at.least one Vermont man died after drowning in his home.

As hot as it is, 90% of the heat trapped by CO₂ and other greenhouse gases is transferred to the ocean. Water off South Florida is currently over 90° F and scientists are already seeing signs of coral bleaching off Central and South America. Particularly concerning is how early in the summer we are seeing these high ocean temperatures. If the extreme heat persists, it could have dire consequences for coral reefs and hence the entire aquatic ecosystem.