WASHINGTON, Sept. 9 (UPI) -- Texas endured the hottest summer ever recorded by a U.S. state with temperatures averaging 86.8 degrees, scientists said Thursday.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration reported the summer was the second-hottest ever for the entire country, with the highest average temperatures in 75 years, CNN reported. Washington and Oregon were the only states where temperatures were below average in the months of June, July and August, the meteorological summer.
The southern tier endured the most grueling weather with Louisiana, New Mexico and Oklahoma experiencing record-breaking heat in addition to Texas. In those four states, as well as Arizona and Colorado, temperatures in August set records for the month.
In Dallas, the mercury topped 100 for 40 days straight. Officials have reported at least 22 heat-related deaths across the country during the summer months.
Texas had its driest summer ever, contributing to the disastrous wildfires that have hit the state.
