A record-breaking heatwave struck the United States Pacific Northwest last week resulting in nearly 200 deaths. 

In Oregon, health authorities reported 116 deaths, while Washington state reported 78. This area, known for its mostly moderate climate, is experiencing record temperatures as evidenced by climate change. 

Western Canada also felt the effects of this heatwave, reporting as many as 500 deaths and sparking wildfires in the province.

According to The Guardian, “The fresh data on fatalities comes as a new analysis found that the deadly heatwave would have been ‘virtually impossible without human-caused climate change”, which added several extra degrees to scorching record temperatures’.” 

The evidence is clear that dramatic weather events, major flooding and historic forest fires are the result of climate change.

For the Earth Minute and the Sojourner Truth Show this is Theresa Church from Global Justice Ecology Project.