June has been delightfully cool in Israel so far, and I hear the same from family on the northeast and northwest coasts of the United States.

But with the official arrival of El Niño on June 8 – compounded by human-caused global warming – the weather may get a whole lot hotter.

The two Israeli meteorology experts I interviewed for this article explain why 2023 to 2027 will probably be the warmest years on record.

While there’s not much to do about El Niño — a natural phenomenon going on for millennia – policymakers can temper the warming effects of climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and implementing sustainable sources of electricity for indoor cooling and water desalination.

What can we do as individuals?

Though it may seem like a drop in the bucket, we can reduce our use of fossil fuels.

Set air-conditioning temps a degree or two higher. Use public transportation and solar energy whenever possible. Landscape gardens for maximum summertime shade.

And consider electing lawmakers – no matter where you live — dedicated to smart environmental policy. We’re going to need it.  

Best wishes,