A record-breaking heat wave is across the US affecting millions of people and pushing temperatures to dangerous levels. The heat is being experienced across a significant portion of the country with the Northeast and Midwest particularly hard-hit.
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Approximately 270 million people across the United States will endure temperatures at or above 90 degrees Fahrenheit this week.
This vast area of impact highlights the reach of the heat wave, which is affecting the eastern half of the country.
The current heat wave is fueled by a massive heat dome parked over the eastern US, causing temperatures to soar to record-breaking levels. This phenomenon traps hot air in place and intensifies the heat day by day.
Hundreds of temperature records are expected to be tied or broken this week. Cities in the Midwest and Northeast such as Chicago, Cleveland and Pittsburgh, are experiencing temperatures above their historical averages.
This heat wave is reminiscent of those seen decades ago, with some areas experiencing their highest temperatures in 30 years.
Pittsburgh is facing heat levels not seen since June 1994, when it recorded six consecutive days with temperatures exceeding 95°F.
The heat wave is impacting major metropolitan areas including New York City, Boston, Chicago, Detroit, St. Louis and Cleveland.
These cities are expected to face dangerously high temperatures with heat indices reaching triple digits.
Areas as far north as Maine are experiencing unusually high temperatures with heat indices soaring into the low 100s due to high humidity levels.
Extreme heat is the deadliest form of severe weather, killing more people annually than hurricanes and tornadoes combined.
The elderly, young children and those without adequate cooling are vulnerable to heat-related illnesses.
The National Weather Service is urging residents to practice heat safety by staying hydrated, avoiding strenuous activities and checking on vulnerable neighbors. Cooling centers are being opened in cities like New York and Cleveland to provide relief.
Cities are opening cooling centers and extending recreation center hours to provide residents with respite from the heat.
Programs involving outdoor activities such as playground sessions are being suspended to ensure public safety.
The extreme heat is leading to disruptions in daily life, with authorities advising people to limit outdoor activities and take measures to stay cool and hydrated.
The heat dome responsible for the current conditions is causing consecutive days of temperatures with minimal overnight cooling.
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This lack of nighttime relief exacerbates the risk of heat-related illnesses. The most intense heat is expected on Wednesday and Thursday with some areas seeing temperatures up to 25 degrees above normal.
The heat wave is predicted to last for several more days with only slight reductions in temperature on surrounding days.
The United States experienced its most frequent heat waves in 2023, the highest number since 1936. Records indicate that cities like Phoenix have already set new temperature highs this year.
While much of the United States is experiencing extreme heat, other regions such as the northern Rockies, are seeing unusual weather patterns including late-season snow.
The central Gulf Coast is facing threats from heavy rain and flash flooding.
Over 75 million people are currently under heat alerts. Authorities are addressing the importance of staying indoors, hydrating and utilizing resources like cooling centers.
Manchester, New Hampshire reached 97°F, surpassing the previous record of 94°F set in 1967.
Scranton, Pennsylvania hit 94°F, exceeding the old record of 93°F from 2018.
Mansfield, Ohio tied the record high of 93°F set in 1994. The heat is expected to persist, with temperatures likely to break more records in areas ranging from Detroit to Caribou, Maine.
New Mexico is battling two fast-growing wildfires, termed the South Fork and Salt Fires, which are spreading and acting like “a pair of tongs” across the southern part of the state.
At least one person has died and two others have been injured due to the wildfires. The deceased’s identity and details about the injuries have not been disclosed.
Approximately 5,000 residents have been evacuated from various towns. Ruidoso Downs is under a mandatory evacuation order as the Salt Fire approaches.
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The town of Alto witnessed a huge fire damage with residents working to protect their homes from hotspots. Rescue operations are underway at the Ruidoso Downs Race Track, where dozens of horses are being evacuated to safer areas.
In Colusa County, the Sites Fire has expanded to over 15,565 acres with only 15% containment. Efforts are hampered by high winds, although a decrease in wind speed and an increase in humidity are expected to aid firefighting efforts soon.
In Sonoma County, the Point Fire has burned 1,207 acres and is 40% contained.
Stagnant air around the fires is causing poor air quality, which is expected to persist in the coming days.
The Texas coast including Houston, San Antonio and Corpus Christi, is bracing for heavy rainfall and flooding, with a Level 3 of 4 risk of flooding in place.
The National Hurricane Center has extended the tropical storm warning northward in Texas to San Luis Pass. The tropical cyclone expected to become Tropical Storm Alberto, is predicted to bring rainfall and strong winds.
Southern Texas could receive 5-10 inches of rain, with isolated areas getting up to 15 inches.
New York City is experiencing temperatures that feel over 100°F. Governor Kathy Hochul has announced free admission to state parks to help residents cope with the heat.
The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) is reducing train speeds to prevent heat-related track issues and transit vehicles are equipped with air conditioning.
Organizations like the ASPCA recommend avoiding walking dogs in midday heat, never leaving pets in vehicles and ensuring they have access to fresh water and cool resting areas.
A report from New York City indicates that approximately 350 people die prematurely each summer due to hot weather.
Employers are urged to take steps to protect workers from heat-related illnesses including providing water, rest breaks and appropriate work attire.
The first class of the American Climate Corps has been sworn in, aiming to prepare young Americans for roles in clean energy and climate resilience.
The initiative seeks to hire over 20,000 members in its first year to help manage forests, deploy clean energy and restore coastal wetlands.
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