News

Earlier Summer temps in Philadelphia are another reminder of climate change

Climate change trends are shifting us towards warmer temps earlier in the year.

May heating up is another reminder of climate change.

Climate change not only shifting us towards hotter weather but also coming earlier in the year. In Philadelphia, the first 85°F+ is arriving 14 days earlier on average.

54% of US cities have recorded summer temperatures at least one week earlier than they did 50 years ago, according to Climate Central.

Summer heat presents a challenge to health, especially with the city’s urban heat island effect. The Office of Sustainability created the “Beat the Heat” plan to help residents cope with higher temperatures.

Cover photo: M. Edlow for Visit Philadelphia


Julie Hancher

Julie Hancher is Editor-in-Chief of Green Philly, sharing her expertise of all things sustainable in the city of brotherly love. She enjoys long walks in the park with local beer and greening her travels, cooking & cat, Sir Floofus Drake.

Recent Posts

SEPTA restores service, rally for clean air, secondhand clothes, & more

Catch up on the latest sustainability news:  SEPTA uses capital funds to avoid cuts for…

4 days ago

SEPTA’s crisis didn’t happen overnight. Meet the long-time advocates who’ve been fighting all along.

For years, advocates have warned about SEPTA’s future. Their fight for permanent funding continues beyond…

5 days ago

Can I eat that? Local mushroom enthusiasts answer foraging questions from taste to preserving biodiversity.

New to foraging? We took a walk with the Philadelphia Mycology Club to find out…

6 days ago

SEPTA pauses cuts, Mini-grants for walkable neighborhoods, & more

Catch up on the latest sustainability news:  Announcing the SustainPHL nominees. Green Philly is hosting…

2 weeks ago

Announcing the SustainPHL 2025 Nominees

Celebrating the leaders, visionaries, and changemakers shaping a more sustainable Philadelphia Even in tough times,…

2 weeks ago

P.A.S.H.I.’s reusable pads project is reviving a legacy of sustainability and self-reliance in women’s health

How one Philly nonprofit is uplifting women’s health with handmade, eco-friendly feminine hygiene products In…

2 weeks ago