Extreme North American heatwaves in 1941 and 2021 drove widespread but contrasting impacts

Researchers have conducted a comparative study of the extreme heatwaves in North America during 1941 and 2021 to understand their differing impacts. The study utilizes historical news archives and modern climate data to analyze how social, technological, and policy factors influenced the outcomes of these two major weather events.
Why it matters
Understanding historical climate events provides critical context for modern climate change adaptation and policy responses to extreme weather.
Communications Earth & Environment ( 2026 ) Cite this article
We’re sharing this article early to provide faster access to peer-reviewed, accepted research. It is citable and carries a permanent DOI. This version is subject to further edits and will be replaced automatically by the final Version of Record. All legal disclaimers apply.
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