Axios

Let's take stock of VP Kamala Harris' energy and climate record as President Biden's status sits on the knife's edge.

Why it matters: Her stances — both past and present —will face GOP attacks and get renewed environmentalist support if she becomes the standard bearer.

June was the warmest such month on record worldwide, according to figures released Monday, extending a heat streak even longer.

Why it matters: The monthly milestone increases the odds that 2024 will eclipse 2023 as the warmest year on record, and adds to the consecutive months that exceeded the crucial 1.5°C threshold in the Paris Agreement.

Massive wildfires burning across the U.S. West during the record heat wave prompted evacuation orders in several states over the weekend — including one in Southern California that's threatening homes including the late Michael Jackson's former Neverland Ranch.

The big picture: 24 large fires have been burning across the Western U.S., per the latest details from the National Interagency Fire Center — including eight in California and two in Utah, where hot, dry and windy conditions brought "critical fire weather" concern for central and southern parts of the state Sunday.

A historic, long-lasting and intense heat wave is not over yet, but it has already broken dozens of records — including all-time milestones. It poses an "extreme" health risk for tens of millions of people.

The big picture: The heat has expanded to affect nearly the entire western U.S., with warnings and advisories stretching from Las Vegas to Seattle.