Long summer

North country residents, for the most part, have escaped the intense heat afflicting much of America this summer.

States from the mid-Atlantic region to the Great Plains have experienced a spring and summer of continuous heat. Washington, D.C., has endured its highest average temperature for June since 1871 and may set a record in July as well, the New York Times reported. New York City thermometers in July are soaring 5.5 degrees above normal.

New York, Washington and Las Vegas have established air-conditioned public spaces where people can cool off and drink cold water. Homeless people have been allowed to stay in shelters during "red alerts" in New York City.

The heat waves are not limited to the U.S.: 2010 may pass 2005 as the warmest year recorded for the planet, said the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

Yet summer nights are still cool in Northern New York.