If you’re wondering about the summertime heat, it’s not your imagination. The global thermostat is cranking up. But how much warmer than normal is the season in your region?

This question is important. General concern for the climate is no longer sufficient. If we are to understand the situation enough to take meaningful and effective action where we live, we need to know specifics.

Being curious about summertime heat and monitoring what’s happening in your community–to yourself, your family, and your friends–makes you powerful. It helps inspire you to perform actions that matter. After all, everyone needs inspiration to eat less meat, warm the air conditioner by a degree or two, write congress, or schedule car-free days.

According to Climate Central.org–a center of research and journalistic reporting on the impacts of climate change–summer temperatures are up 2.3 degrees in my region since 1970. Click here to find out how things are trending in your area.

The climate is changing. Get informed to get motivated.