Hottest July on Record in Bakersfield

Strategic Insights -

Residents of Bakersfield experienced a merciless heat wave in July 2024, with an average temperature of 90.8 degrees, a full 6 degrees higher than the normal monthly average. This marked the hottest July on record since daily record keeping began over 125 years ago. The extreme heat wave affected not only Bakersfield but also surrounding cities, with Fresno, Madera, and Merced each setting new records for the highest average temperatures ever recorded in July.

Key Takeaways:

  • The average temperature in Bakersfield during July 2024 was 90.8 degrees, a 6-degree increase from the normal monthly average.
  • Bakersfield experienced its hottest July on record, with an average temperature surpassing all previous records since daily record keeping began over 125 years ago.
  • The city's residents experienced triple-digit temperatures on 24 out of 31 days in July, 11 more days than the normal July average of 13.
  • Fresno, Madera, and Merced each set new records for the highest average temperatures ever recorded in July in their respective cities.
  • The extreme heat wave was particularly hazardous, with NWS meteorologist Andy Bollenbacher noting that people living without air conditioning and those living outside were at risk of heat exhaustion.
  • The prolonged heat wave placed tremendous pressure on the electrical grid and contributed to the spread of wildland fires.

Statistics:

  • 24 out of 31 days in July experienced triple-digit temperatures in Bakersfield.
  • The average temperature in Bakersfield was 6 degrees higher than the normal monthly average.
  • The hottest July on record saw an average temperature of 90.8 degrees, surpassing all previous records.
  • Fresno, Madera, and Merced set new records for the highest average temperatures ever recorded in July in their respective cities:

+ Fresno: 82.5 degrees (breaking the previous record of 79.5 in 2015)

+ Madera: 83.8 degrees (breaking the previous record of 79.5 in 2011)

+ Merced: 85.4 degrees (breaking the previous record of 82.5 in 2013)

Sources:

  • "Hottest July on Record in Bakersfield," The Bakersfield Californian (Bakersfield, Calif.)
  • National Weather Service Hanford station
  • NWS meteorologist-climatologist Brian Ochs
  • NWS meteorologist Andy Bollenbacher
  • Tribune Content Agency, LLC
  • "July 2024 Monthly Weather Summary" (TBC)