The contiguous United States experienced its hottest month on record in July, breaking a mark that had stood since the Dust Bowl era nearly 90 years ago, according to newly released data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Federal climate records show the average temperature ac ross the Lower 48 states reached 76.89 degrees Fahrenheit, edging past the previous July record set in 1936, according to The Associated Press. ...read more read less