Heatwave Alerts Engulf Over 100 Million Americans as Sweltering Conditions Intensify in Southern and Southwestern Regions.
The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued excessive heat advisories and warnings for a vast stretch of the United States, spanning from Florida to California and encompassing regions in southern Nevada, western Arizona, Texas, and Oklahoma. More than 109 million people are covered by these heat alerts, according to Heat.gov. Weather experts indicate that a stagnant upper-level high over the Southwest and northern Mexico will persist and expand its influence, particularly over the Great Basin and California. The Central/Southern Plains, Lower Mississippi Valley, and parts of the Desert Southwest and California are experiencing a widespread and intense heat wave.
Record-breaking temperatures are expected in various locations across the western US, while the eastern Plains, Lower Mississippi Valley, and southeast could reach temperatures in the upper 90s and low 100s. However, high humidity levels could make it feel even hotter, with heat indices reaching up to 115 degrees. Unfortunately, there is no immediate relief in sight as the intensely hot conditions are predicted to worsen over the weekend and persist into the following week.
The NWS warns of the extreme dangers posed by this prolonged heatwave, attributing some of the risks to a cooler start to the summer, limiting people’s ability to acclimate to typical hot weather. The Central Valley of California, portions of the Mojave and Sonoran deserts, southern Nevada, and Arizona are among the areas most at risk. The excessive heat is expected to persist for the next two weeks across much of the southwestern US, expanding further into Texas.
Extreme heat poses significant risks, with approximately 618 people in the United States losing their lives to it each year. Older adults, young children, and individuals with mental illness and chronic diseases are especially vulnerable. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends wearing loose, lightweight clothing during extreme heat, seeking shelter in air-conditioned buildings (such as shopping malls or public libraries), and limiting outdoor activities. While electric fans provide temporary relief, they are insufficient when temperatures are in the high 90s, and individuals should instead take cold showers or find air-conditioned spaces.
Recent data from Berkeley Earth reveals that June was the warmest on record globally since at least 1850. Phoenix and California faced soaring temperatures, leading to the rapid spread of deadly wildfires. In contrast, the northeastern US experienced severe rain and heavy flooding, with millions of Americans placed under flood watches and warnings. Vermont, particularly the state capital of Montpelier, was heavily affected, prompting a boil water notice due to flooding impacts on wells and water pumps. Additionally, the Chicago area encountered extreme weather, including the formation of eight tornadoes, disrupting flights at O’Hare International Airport and Chicago Midway International Airport.
Source: With Agencies