Climate Change Leads to Record-Setting Heat, Cancellation of Twin Cities Marathon
Minnesota experienced a historic heat wave on Sunday, leading to the cancellation of the Twin Cities Marathon for the first time ever. The record-setting temperature was a result of the changing climate in the state, which has been gradually increasing temperatures over time. According to senior climatologist Kenny Blumenfeld, climate change likely added a few degrees of additional heat to Sunday’s temperature of 92 degrees in the Twin Cities, breaking the previous record of 87 degrees for that day.
Blumenfeld noted that the warmest September on record undoubtedly played a role in the extreme heat experienced in October. He explained that climate change is fueling an expansion of Minnesota’s hot weather season, including months when 90-degree readings can occur. However, Blumenfeld did mention that there is a limit to this trend due to the position and strength of the sun being the same in Minnesota’s October as it is in March.
The heat wave has raised concerns about the future of the Twin Cities Marathon. The race, which attracts around 20,000 runners, typically takes place in the first week of October. However, the desirable temperature range for the marathon is usually in the 40s, which has only happened a handful of times since the race began in 1982. Considering the warming trend in October, there is a possibility that the marathon may need to be rescheduled later in the month.
The impact of rising temperatures on marathons has been observed in other parts of the country as well. Marathons held in Boston, New York, and Louisiana are scheduled during months with lower temperatures. In Minnesota, temperatures on race day have reached above 80 degrees four times since 2006, posing potential dangers to runners. In previous marathons held in high heat, hundreds of runners required emergency medical calls.
Climate change has had a significant impact on Minnesota, especially in the fall and winter seasons. Rising temperatures have affected recreational activities such as fishing and winter festivals, leading to cancellations and changes in regulations. The running industry is also feeling the effects, as the cancellation of the Twin Cities Marathon has left many runners disappointed and unsure about what to do next.
Some see the cancellation as an opportunity to address the environmental impacts of the running industry. Ellen Szostak, a sales associate at Mill City Running, connected the cancellation to the climate crisis and the carbon footprint of the running shoe industry. She believes that if more races are canceled due to extreme weather, it could prompt shoe brands to take notice and make changes to reduce their environmental impact.
The cancellation of the Twin Cities Marathon serves as a reminder of the urgency to address climate change and its consequences. As temperatures continue to rise, it is crucial for communities, industries, and individuals to take action and adapt to the changing climate.