Arizona is expected to experience a record-breaking stretch of extremely hot weather as a result of the relentless heatwave that is burning sections of the US’s southwest.
According to the National Weather Service (NWS), there are various heat advisories in effect for more than 113 million people.
Heat Wave Crisis Hits US Southwest
Phoenix has had 13 days with temperatures of at least 43C (110F), and next Tuesday is expected to break its 18-day record for the hottest day on record. Other cities are anticipated to reach temperatures beyond 100F (38C).
In some areas of the Southern Plains, “oppressive heat” of up to 115F (46C) is anticipated.
In certain regions, nightly lows are predicted to stay “abnormally warm” at around 90°F (32°C), providing no relief from the heat.
Authorities have advised people to exercise caution, limit their time outside during the hottest part of the day, drink plenty of water, and avoid leaving children or pets in closed cars.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 700 persons in the US are thought to pass away annually as a result of heat-related conditions.
The previous high temperature record for the city was 23 days straight, achieved in 1994.
For individuals who are homeless in Phoenix, cooling shelters have opened, and volunteers have been making wellness calls to elderly and people living alone.
Read more: Extreme Heat Escalation: World Breaks Temperature Records Two Days In A Row
City Distributes Thousands Of Water Bottles
Thousands of water bottles have also been distributed by the city as part of its initiative to combat the heat.
The natural weather pattern known as El Nio, which causes temperatures to soar and occurs every three to seven years, and climate change, according to scientists, are the main reasons for the current temperatures.
Since the start of the industrial age, the world has already warmed by around 1.1C, and temperatures will continue to rise unless governments drastically reduce emissions.
Read more: Deadly Heat Wave Grips Texas: Emergency Room Visits Soar