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

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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. View all posts by Julie Hancher