Brian Lehrer: A Daily Politics Podcast Central Park Temperature Chart, Global Implications
Jul 31, 2025
Radley Horton, a climate professor at Columbia University, highlights the alarming connections between extreme weather, air quality, and Canadian wildfires. He discusses the significant impact of rising temperatures in urban areas, emphasizing the necessity for cities to adapt to climate threats. Horton examines historical temperature trends in Central Park and their implications for public health. He also addresses skepticism about climate change, advocating for public awareness and immediate action towards renewable energy solutions.
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Central Park July Temperature Rise
- July average temperatures in Central Park rose from 73°F in 1869 to 79°F in the 2010s.
- This steady 2°F increase every 50 years indicates a clear warming trend due to climate change.
Rising Heat and Humidity Explained
- The rising average July temperatures align with greenhouse gas-induced global warming.
- Increasing ocean temperatures also contribute to higher humidity, worsening heat stress.
Climate Change Evidence Confirmed Globally
- The majority of global warming has occurred in the last 40 years, consistent worldwide.
- Observed warming patterns, like polar amplification and stratospheric cooling, match greenhouse gas predictions.