California Heat Wave Claims 16

Thousands were without power and at least 16 deaths were blamed on the heat wave that struck southern California in the past few days. While relief in the form of cooler temperatures is on the way, the episode is another warning sign about the perils of unchecked global warming. National Weather Service

No one weather event can be said to have been caused by global warming, but scientists are increasingly confident in saying that the extent and duration of heat waves will increase as the globe warms. Likewise, wildfires -- such as those raging across California and other Western states -- floods and other extreme weather are expected to increase.

Some reports already tie increased incidence of events like these to global warming to date. In other words, a deadly heat wave like this ought to be another sign that it's time to do something about global warming.

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