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Do you shift from one side to another in the middle of the night, unable to sleep because of the summer heat? Well, let’s just say you’re not the only one having trouble getting a full night’s rest, as the temperatures this season have been scorching hot in many parts of the world. Record-breaking heat waves and vicious wildfires have swept throughout the northern hemisphere, particularly Western Europe, the UK, China, and parts of the US. And they bring dire consequences.

The searing heat has damaged roads, melted cars and traffic lights, and led to significant impacts we can’t ignore. As we’ve all been feeling (and excessively sweating!) it lately, people took to the internet to share their experiences, one photo at a time.

Our team at Bored Panda has scoured the web and compiled a collection of vivid pictures that sum up how the summer of 2022 shaped up to be a scorcher. So grab a cold drink, blast that fan, and continue scrolling. Keep reading to also find our in-depth interview with climate psychologist, activist and writer Jessica Kleczka. Be sure to upvote as you go, and let us know how the high temperatures have affected you and your surroundings these past few months in the comments.

Psst! After you’re done with this list, more heat wave madness can be found in Part 1 of this feature right here.

#1

Had To Bring My Birds Inside Today Due To The Extreme Heat Outside

Had To Bring My Birds Inside Today Due To The Extreme Heat Outside

They are NOT house ducks, and they’re watching the washing machine—My dad walked past them sniggering, pointed to the washing machine and said “Petflix”.

Depressed-NotEmo Report

#2

Human Lets Stray Dogs Sleep In His Store So They Can Cool Down In Hot Weather

Human Lets Stray Dogs Sleep In His Store So They Can Cool Down In Hot Weather

sinnersanctum Report

While scorching heat may not seem as dramatic as other natural disasters (read: floods and tornadoes), the U.S. National Weather Service has deemed it the deadliest weather hazard over the past 30 years. It's especially dangerous during summer when the northern half of the planet is tilted toward the sun, and the northern hemisphere receives increased daylight hours and warmth.

When it comes to heat waves, there seems to be no universal definition of the term as it is relative to local weather conditions. But the same National Weather Service refers to it as a period of abnormally hot weather generally lasting more than two days with high temperatures of at least 90 degrees.

#3

I Gave This Pregnant Cat An Ice-Cold Bottle Of Gatorade To Hold On To During A Peruvian Heatwave

I Gave This Pregnant Cat An Ice-Cold Bottle Of Gatorade To Hold On To During A Peruvian Heatwave

WhatsThisPlant Report

#4

Another Casualty Of The Heatwave, Found This Dehydrated Pipistrelle Bat In The Garden Just After Dark Last Night

Another Casualty Of The Heatwave, Found This Dehydrated Pipistrelle Bat In The Garden Just After Dark Last Night

Managed to get it to drink some glucose solution and an hour later it was flying around the street lamp catching insects.

gloworm62 Report

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Erin Fish
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

All these humans rescuing animals from the heat gives you some hope for humanity. Some.

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Heat waves begin when high pressure in the atmosphere (also known as an anticyclone) builds up, moves in, and pushes warm air toward the ground. That creates a sinking column of air that warms up further as it is compressed. While moisture in the earth can blunt the effects of the heat (the same way our bodies evaporate sweat to cool the body), with so little water in the soil, there isn’t as much to soak up the heat. So as the ground warms, it often dries out, trapping the latent heat already absorbed by the landscape to heat up even more.

Then, the high-pressure system acts as a cap or a lid on a pot, otherwise known as a "heat dome". It even pushes out cooler, fast-moving air currents and minimizes wind and cloud cover, which gives the sun an open line of sight to the ground. It’s also why heat waves place themselves over an area for several days or longer.

#5

Hedgehog Came Out To Us. Due To The Very Hot Weather In Belgium We Thought It Was Thirsty And It Was. Cat Approves

Hedgehog Came Out To Us. Due To The Very Hot Weather In Belgium We Thought It Was Thirsty And It Was. Cat Approves

Mediocre_Martin Report

To learn more about these sweltering heat waves and the effects they have on our health and the state of the world in general, we reached out to Jessica Kleczka, a climate psychologist, environmental social scientist, and climate justice activist. "The current heat wave in Europe has led to droughts, crop failures and thousands of heat deaths," she told Bored Panda.

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"The UK was forced to declare a red weather warning for heat for the first time in history, with temperatures breaching 40°C [104 °F] in London. While there is not enough data on this particular heat wave yet, we know that the last major heat wave in 2018 was made 30 times more likely by climate change, and we can expect similar conclusions to this current extreme weather event," Kleczka added.

#8

If You Have A Garden, Try To Leave A Bowl Of Water Out. Wildlife Suffers From This Heat As Much As We Do

If You Have A Garden, Try To Leave A Bowl Of Water Out. Wildlife Suffers From This Heat As Much As We Do

emehen Report

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#9

A Neighbor Put Out A Doggy Station With Treats And Water. To Help Dogs Cool Down During The Heat Wave We Are Having

A Neighbor Put Out A Doggy Station With Treats And Water. To Help Dogs Cool Down During The Heat Wave We Are Having

Embarrassed-Mouse-49 Report

While it may seem tricky to pinpoint how a specific weather event was influenced by climate change, Kleczka explained, "Climate breakdown is primarily driven by the burning of fossil fuels, which contribute around 90% of global CO2 emissions."

"The International Energy Agency said last year that there can be no new coal, oil and gas if we are to avert dangerous heating," she continued. "What we need to see now are ambitious policies from global political leaders in the run-up to COP27 [The 2022 United Nations Climate Change Conference], away from these dirty fuels and towards renewables and energy efficiency."

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#10

Spotted Today. Mancunians Are The Best

Spotted Today. Mancunians Are The Best

Proper Manchester Report

#12

It’s Literally Insane To Have Them Wear That Outfit In This Heat

It’s Literally Insane To Have Them Wear That Outfit In This Heat

nytimes Report

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Bri Nicole
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

They shouldn't have to stand out in that insane heat. No reason to put their life on the line for this. Absolutely stupid

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The dire reality is that climate change caused by greenhouse gasses from burning fossil fuels is poised to make heat waves longer, stronger, and more common. But Kleczka pointed out that a growing number of studies now show that additional warming can be halted within a few years — but only if we act with urgency.

"Ambitious climate action can be very effective and avert the worst impacts of climate breakdown, if done the right way. Any approach must center the most vulnerable people, those on the frontlines of the climate crisis, and Indigenous communities who protect 80% of global biodiversity," she said.

#13

This Church Always Has Great Signs, But I Guess This Heatwave Is Getting To Them

This Church Always Has Great Signs, But I Guess This Heatwave Is Getting To Them

redrumpanda Report

#14

"How Hot Is It Today, Hun? Hot Enough To Shatter Our Outdoor Table"

"How Hot Is It Today, Hun? Hot Enough To Shatter Our Outdoor Table"

custardy_cream Report

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Groundcontroltomajortom
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This happened to my mums glass table too. Just be glad you weren't eating or drinking at it when it happened!!

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#15

Our Cat Confirming The Heat Wave In India

Our Cat Confirming The Heat Wave In India

Tech-Sapien18 Report

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When it comes to the major cities, however, the summers there shape up to get warmer, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). See, hot spells are occurring more often than they used to in the big cities across the country. Their frequency has increased gradually, "From an average of two heat waves per year during the 1960s to six per year during the 2010s and 2020s".

Small wonder, as urban areas further exacerbate the heat, and you can clearly see the examples in this list. Cities like Houston or New Orleans experience higher temperatures than outlying areas because their roads, parking lots, and buildings cover natural areas and absorb more heat than their surroundings. A phenomenon that's also known as the urban heat island effect.

As the EPA stated, "Structures such as buildings, roads, and other infrastructure absorb and re-emit the sun’s heat more than natural landscapes such as forests and water bodies." In these areas, daytime temperatures are about 1–7°F higher than in outlying areas, and nighttime temperatures are about 2-5°F higher.

#16

Delicious

Delicious

jewlieee_l Report

#17

Hot Enough For You? Hotter Than It Used To Be, And Getting Hotter Every Year. This, From Kuwait

Hot Enough For You? Hotter Than It Used To Be, And Getting Hotter Every Year. This, From Kuwait

Mohayat Report

#18

Measured The Road Temperature Outside My House - Don't Walk Dogs In This Heat

Measured The Road Temperature Outside My House - Don't Walk Dogs In This Heat

LittleEngland Report

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These numbers affect our health, our lifestyles, and the economy in general. If humanity keeps going down this path, heat waves can turn densely populated parts of the world into uninhabitable territories in the future.

"We're already seeing major losses of fertile land around the world and large areas could become uninhabitable in the coming decades if urgent climate action is not taken — including coastal towns and cities in the global north," Kleczka explained. "These impacts are already happening close to home."

#19

Can I Cool My Cat With Wet Towels On Very Hot Days?

Can I Cool My Cat With Wet Towels On Very Hot Days?

Polaster64 Report

#20

You Know It's Hot When The Plastic Slides Are Melting

You Know It's Hot When The Plastic Slides Are Melting

worldofjessicac Report

#21

Brown Beetle Infestation In Argentina Due To Intense Heat Wave

Brown Beetle Infestation In Argentina Due To Intense Heat Wave

cindymfernandez Report

For certain parts of society, the impact will be even more challenging. "Marginalized communities, such as people of color and those living in poverty, tend to be disproportionately affected by heat waves due to poor quality of housing."

Kleczka continued: "In buildings that lack insulation, temperatures can be even higher than outdoors, leading to heat stress and premature death. This poses considerable risk to the elderly, chronically ill and disabled, who are more vulnerable to extreme temperatures as they can exacerbate pre-existing conditions."

Heat waves not only impact our physical health and well-being, but they worsen our mental health, too. "[They] have been linked to a rise in depressive episodes, anxiety, and suicide attempts. Researchers say that for every 1°C increase in monthly temperatures, mental health-related deaths increase by 2.2%."

Moreover, some medications prescribed to people who suffer these conditions "also increase the risk of heat-related death, while others become less effective in rising temperatures."

#24

When It’s Too Hot Outside And It’s Too Hot Inside So You Kinda Hang In Between. I Know The Weather Is Awful For Us Humans But Please Take Care Of Your Pets Too

When It’s Too Hot Outside And It’s Too Hot Inside So You Kinda Hang In Between. I Know The Weather Is Awful For Us Humans But Please Take Care Of Your Pets Too

BatmansLongjohns Report

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Helen Waight
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I got some of those migraine cool packs (the ones you stick on your head and last for several hours), put them in a row with a sheet over them for my cat to rest on. There was no other way to cool him down (he’s scared of fans)

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When these alarming weather phenomena seem on a path to increasingly impact our daily lives, it’s easy to feel like we’re running out of time to act. Thankfully, Kleczka offered some reassuring words on how everyone can strive to mitigate heat waves.

"It's important to remember that all is not lost if we keep pushing for political action," she said. "What we need to see now is a rapid shift away from fossil fuels, major investments in renewables, energy efficiency and home insulation, as well as climate finance and loss and damage to communities on the frontline, who have been made vulnerable by centuries of colonialism and continued exploitation."

#26

The Heat Wave In Louisiana Severely Melted This Port-O-Potty

The Heat Wave In Louisiana Severely Melted This Port-O-Potty

Cg407 Report

#27

Let's Hope The Impending Showers Can Penetrate This Dry Ground

Let's Hope The Impending Showers Can Penetrate This Dry Ground

fatrat Report

"If we don't do these things, heat waves will grow in frequency and severity, but there is definitely still hope." If you want to take action, Kleczka mentioned a note-worthy campaign called the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty. Ever since 2019, this global initiative has aimed to phase-out fossil fuels and build a globally just transition for every worker, community, and country.

"The climate movement is strong and growing. The best thing people can do to tackle the climate crisis is to get involved in their local climate group (or remotely) and help build a political mandate for a just transition and sustainable future for all," Kleczka concluded.

#28

Very Overwhelming Flying Back Into England, This Is The Effects Of The Heatwave. England Has Turned Brown

Very Overwhelming Flying Back Into England, This Is The Effects Of The Heatwave. England Has Turned Brown

deanjcox Report

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#29

Many Schools Have Been Finding New Ways To Keep Their Children Cool During The Heatwave

Many Schools Have Been Finding New Ways To Keep Their Children Cool During The Heatwave

The Teacher Traveller Report

#30

Patch Of Grass That Was Saved By The Trampoline During The UK Heatwave In July

Patch Of Grass That Was Saved By The Trampoline During The UK Heatwave In July

Sweet-liqourice Report

#31

Luton Airport's Runway Has Melted Due To The Intense Heat

Luton Airport's Runway Has Melted Due To The Intense Heat

e_lumumba Report

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Helen Waight
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

And the trains were running slow/cancelled because the heat was warping the rails.

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#32

My Thermometer Has Reached Its Limit In The French Heatwave

My Thermometer Has Reached Its Limit In The French Heatwave

Archaicarc Report

#33

Windows Doesn't Even Feel Like Keeping Up With The Current Temperature

Windows Doesn't Even Feel Like Keeping Up With The Current Temperature

DaGoobergoobs Report

#34

This Candle That Melted With The Heat Of The Summer

This Candle That Melted With The Heat Of The Summer

jorgeuhs Report

#35

40°C Heat? That’s Why Pigeons Go To Iceland

40°C Heat? That’s Why Pigeons Go To Iceland

bolch Report

#36

More That 59°C Was Measured On The Soil Surface In Spain And 48°C In The South On France

More That 59°C Was Measured On The Soil Surface In Spain And 48°C In The South On France

Copernicus Report

#37

In Central Italy We Are Facing One Of The Worse Heatwaves Ever. Temperatures Are Already At 104°F (40°C) At 10 Am. This Is My Geranium That I Watered Yesterday Morning

In Central Italy We Are Facing One Of The Worse Heatwaves Ever. Temperatures Are Already At 104°F (40°C) At 10 Am. This Is My Geranium That I Watered Yesterday Morning

Our cities are gonna cut water several hours everyday because we're also experiencing the worse drought in 70 years.

thoxo Report

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Anikulapo
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Yeah you don’t water in the morning when the sun is set to “crispy”

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#38

Apparently, It’s A Bad Idea To Leave Aerosols In Hot Vans. I Don’t Think They Will Be Happy When They Get Back

Apparently, It’s A Bad Idea To Leave Aerosols In Hot Vans. I Don’t Think They Will Be Happy When They Get Back

reddit.com Report

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#39

Hot Days Even For Ice Cream

Hot Days Even For Ice Cream

jlbowling Report

#40

Here's How Hot It Is In Portland Right Now. This Is My Neighbor's House And The Vinyl Siding Is Blistering Off His House Under The Sun In The 108-Degree Heat

Here's How Hot It Is In Portland Right Now. This Is My Neighbor's House And The Vinyl Siding Is Blistering Off His House Under The Sun In The 108-Degree Heat

thomas.robinson.735 Report

#41

Sith-Fil-A Here In The Texas Heat

Sith-Fil-A Here In The Texas Heat

Codyayo Report

#42

Had A Blanket Cover My Window During The Summer Months In Phoenix. Removed The Blanket Today To Discover My Blinds Had Melted

Had A Blanket Cover My Window During The Summer Months In Phoenix. Removed The Blanket Today To Discover My Blinds Had Melted

acvalenz Report

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Alethia Nyx
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

They don't just look melted, they look cooked! Like they were close to flaming at some point!

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#43

It Is So Hot In Italy That Thermometer Sensors Stop Working Correctly

It Is So Hot In Italy That Thermometer Sensors Stop Working Correctly

DottorMaelstrom Report

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Jrog
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Not a temperature issue, just a malfunction. Those signs fail all the time. The sensors used for those signs go from -55°C to 125°C, and are installed in a way to measure the air temperature, usually enclosing them in a place exposed to air but not direct sunlight and wind.

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#44

People Play A Sunday League Amateur Football Match On A Parched Grass Pitch During A Heatwave, At Hackney Marshes, In London, Britain, August 14, 2022

People Play A Sunday League Amateur Football Match On A Parched Grass Pitch During A Heatwave, At Hackney Marshes, In London, Britain, August 14, 2022

tobymelville Report

#45

How My CD Cover Got Deformed In The Sun With The Heat Wave

How My CD Cover Got Deformed In The Sun With The Heat Wave

LzTz Report

#46

Early Autumn

Early Autumn

JackieGMs66 Report

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mcborge1
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The recent UK heatwave has triggered a false autumn. All the trees lining my street have dropped leaves like the above photo.

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#47

What’s The Point In Buying The Ramen Cooker? Just Use The Bowl

What’s The Point In Buying The Ramen Cooker? Just Use The Bowl

thejoebrown , thejoebrown Report

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Adam Chang
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

you can soften noodle with cold water too....you just have to wait longer.

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#48

It's So Hot In Milan, That My Coffee Machine Is At 40°C Even If It's "Powered Off"

It's So Hot In Milan, That My Coffee Machine Is At 40°C Even If It's "Powered Off"

pilotstella Report

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Sanchi
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The coffee makers are either like that, or broken, or discarded, or a puddle of plastic.

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#49

Europe's Hottest Week

Europe's Hottest Week

StefSimanowitz Report

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GoodWolf
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Okay, I'll be the one to say it. Why is everybody supposed to be saving water when they are pouring it on the damn road for a sports event?!

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#50

"It Is So Hot In NYC Right Now That When I Was Waiting For The Subway Today, The Tracks Literally Caught On Fire"

"It Is So Hot In NYC Right Now That When I Was Waiting For The Subway Today, The Tracks Literally Caught On Fire"

ileana.justine Report

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Bella V
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

That's not from the heat. IF this is a real photo it's from the sun glaring off the metal tracks.

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Note: this post originally had 108 images. It’s been shortened to the top 50 images based on user votes.