Scorching Summer Ahead: NOAA Warns of Widespread Heat, Drought, and Fire Risks Across U.S.

Hadisur Rahman, JadeTimes Staff   

H. Rahman is a Jadetimes news reporter covering the USA

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Image Source: Doyle Rice

As meteorological summer officially kicks off on June 1, forecasters are sounding the alarm: Summer 2025 is shaping up to be one of the hottest on record across the United States. While the astronomical summer doesn’t begin until June 20, meteorologists consider June, July, and August the core summer months and this year, they’re predicting a sweltering season from coast to coast.

According to NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center and other private forecasting agencies, Americans can expect significantly hotter-than-normal temperatures nationwide, with no region projected to experience cooler-than-average conditions.

“Model guidance was overwhelmingly above normal across the U.S. and most of Alaska for the upcoming summer season,” said Johnna Infanti, meteorologist for NOAA's Climate Prediction Center, in a statement to USA TODAY.

Where Will the Heat Be Most Intense?

Forecasters highlight the West, Southwest, Florida, and New England as regions most likely to see the highest temperature anomalies this summer. But make no mistake the entire U.S. is expected to endure above-normal heat.

This prolonged heat surge brings several risks, including:

• Skyrocketing cooling bills, as households and businesses increase air conditioning usage.

• Increased wildfire threats, particularly in already dry and vulnerable regions.

• Public health hazards, with extreme heat being the deadliest weather-related cause in the country, surpassing hurricanes,

  floods, and tornadoes.

What About Rain and Drought?

The summer isn't just about the heat precipitation patterns are also shifting. According to NOAA and DTN meteorologists:

• The Northwest, Northern Rockies, and Great Plains face increased chances of below-average rainfall, which could worsen ongoing drought conditions.

• Drought persistence and expansion are expected in parts of the Southwest.

• The Eastern U.S., on the other hand, may see above-normal precipitation, offering drought relief as the season progresses.

Wildfire Outlook: A Season of Smoke and Flames

The National Interagency Coordination Center warns of elevated wildfire risks this summer:

• In June, critical fire conditions are likely in the coastal Southeast, central Texas, Four Corners, and parts of California and the Pacific Northwest.

• By July and August, the fire threat will shift to Hawaii, the Southern Plains, and parts of the Great Basin, California, and the Northwest.

Adding to the concerns, Canadian wildfires which already affected U.S. air quality in late May are expected to continue sending smoke across the northwestern and north-central U.S. throughout the summer.

“Fires in Canada will likely bring smoke to the U.S., worsening air quality and posing health risks for vulnerable populations,” said AccuWeather meteorologist Paul Pastelok.

As the nation braces for an intense summer, health experts urge caution. Stay hydrated, avoid prolonged sun exposure, and keep an eye on local forecasts and air quality alerts. With record-breaking heat and fire risks looming, preparation and awareness will be key to staying safe.