Suffocating Heat Wave Sweeps Across Southern and Southwestern US, Breaking Records
A suffocating heat wave has engulfed the South and Southwest regions of the United States, subjecting its residents to dangerous temperatures and shattering previous heat records. With more than 100 million individuals currently under excessive heat warnings and advisories, the scorching conditions are posing serious threats to Americans.
According to forecasts, a staggering 45 locales, primarily in Southern or Western states such as Texas, Nevada, Idaho, and Oregon, are expected to witness record-high temperatures over the weekend. In California alone, approximately 25 million people will face heat advisories or excessive heat warnings in the coming days.
One of the most alarming cases is Death Valley National Park, which is projected to reach or even surpass a scorching 130 degrees Fahrenheit, closely approaching the world record temperature of 134 degrees Fahrenheit recorded there in 1913.
Moreover, Las Vegas is also bracing for an unprecedented heat spell, with three consecutive days of highs reaching 115 degrees Fahrenheit. The city experienced a similar occurrence back in 2005, and it is predicted to challenge its record temperature of 117 degrees Fahrenheit on Sunday.
While other areas suffer the consequences of this heatwave, El Paso has endured blistering conditions, reaching temperatures of 110 degrees Fahrenheit or hotter for a staggering 29 days. Similarly, in Phoenix, the mercury has remained at or above 110 degrees Fahrenheit for 15 consecutive days, potentially surpassing the city’s previous record of 18 days in a row.
Forecasters are also keeping a close eye on St. George, Utah, where there is an 86 percent chance of reaching or even exceeding its record-high temperature of 117 degrees Fahrenheit on Sunday and Monday.
Moving towards the East Coast, Miami experienced scorching temperatures during July 1-13, with an average high of 94.5 degrees Fahrenheit—the highest on record for that period.
Furthermore, California’s Central Valley could face sweltering highs of 112 degrees Fahrenheit over the weekend, exacerbating the already intense heatwave.
Additionally, the impacts of the heatwave are not limited to rising temperatures. Even 21 days after dense wildfire smoke from Canada engulfed parts of the Northeast, thick smoke from the fires continues to affect several Canadian provinces. It is currently pushing into the Northern Plains and Great Lakes regions of the United States, causing further distress and discomfort.
With the heatwave showing no signs of relenting, authorities and health officials are urging residents to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to stay safe and protected from the scorching temperatures.