Summer is sticking around in Salt Lake City
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Monday marks the first day of fall, but it still feels like summer in Utah's capital.
Driving the news: Summer temperatures are hanging around longer in Salt Lake City compared with in the early 1970s, a new report from Climate Central finds, as climate change affects the seasons.
Why it matters: Temperatures staying relatively high for longer periods can increase cooling demand, mess with farmers' growing seasons and prolong the risk of wildfires and heat-related illnesses.
By the numbers: Summer temps in Salt Lake City are lasting an average of nine days longer than in 1970, according to the climate research group.
The big picture: Summer temperatures are lingering compared with 1970 in over 90% of the 246 U.S. cities analyzed by Climate Central.
- Among cities with lingering heat, summer temperatures are lasting an extra 10 days on average.
How it works: Climate Central's analysis is based on NOAA data, and it reflects the last date each year with highs equal to or greater than historical summer-like temperatures.
- The group defined "summer-like temperatures" as the 75th percentile of daily highs during the 1991-2000 climate normal.
Flashback: Last year, Salt Lake City logged its second-hottest September in history, with an average temperature of 73.2°, ABC 4 reported.
What's next: NOAA's seasonal outlook for September through November calls for a 50%-70% probability of above-normal temperatures for the state.
- Temperatures in Salt Lake City this week are expected to reach the high-70s to low-80s, per the National Weather Service.