This week in 1980 marked the beginning of one of the longest heatwaves in US history. April 21, 1980 brought 100 degree temperatures to Minnesota and North Dakota.
During that heatwave, the Midwest had 52 days over 100 degrees, and 129 days over 90 degrees. The hottest temperature recorded was 110 degrees.
Texas had 216 days over 90F and 112 days over 100F during 1980. The hottest temperature was 119F On June 26, 1980. I was stuck on the airport tarmac at DFW for three hours one afternoon that week, and they had to turn the AC off on the plane.
Compare with last summer, when the Midwest had three days over 100F, and a peak temperature of 101F.
