Currently in Portland — August 1, 2023: Another warm and sunny day!

The weather, currently.

The technical halfway point of summer isn’t until August 7th, but it’s often celebrated on the first. And since I’m in full fall anticipation mode, I’m going to recognize it today. I’ve been making lists of fall plantings and bulb orders—even though many can’t go into the ground until October. And I’ve even acquired a couple more decorative pumpkins… though I’m making myself wait before displaying them. Back in reality, however, it’s still very much summer—and it’s hot! Tuesday brings more sunshine and a high of 85, part of the upward trend I warned you about. Stay cool out there!

— Stella Harris

What you need to know, currently.

The numbers are in, and July 2023 will be the hottest month in recorded history — possibly in at least 120,000 years.

“These are the hottest temperatures in human history,” said Samantha Burgess, deputy director of the Copernicus Climate Change Service, a division of the European Union.

According to the Berkeley Earth project, the odds are now 81% that this year will end up being the hottest in history. And since we’re in a strengthening El Niño, it’s already nearly certain that 2024 will be hotter than 2023.

At some level, records like these don’t matter much unless they are tied to stronger efforts to systematically phase out the fossil fuels that are responsible. Only then will meaningful climate action be possible.

Currently’s sister publication, The Phoenix, has published a list today of how each one of us can ramp up efforts to connect these climate disasters with the need for profound social change.

—Eric Holthaus

What you can do, currently.

Currently is now a member of the Covering Climate Now partnership, a resource-sharing initiative devoted to making sure the biggest story in human history is told in ways that resonate with everyone.

Take a look at the list of our new partners and maybe find a new favorite podcast or website to support!